Khabib Nurmagomedov turned down a $40,000,000 deal for his UFC return fight

Khabib Nurmagomedov, ever since joining the MMA, has never shown much interest in making money, focusing instead on creating records that would stand as his legacy. Even when participating in one of the most significant bouts in UFC PPV history, “the Eagle” prioritized his championship belt over financial gains.

After securing the title at UFC 227 against Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov and his team became involved in a historic brawl outside the UFC octagon, witnessed by the entire world. Khabib prioritized showing up for his belt rather than focusing on the money he was going to lose.

Khabib Nurmagomedov rejects an unreal offer from Dana White

‘The Eagle’ once again showed why he was one of the most dominant champions in UFC history. Retiring at an earlier stage of his life must have been the toughest decision after losing his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, in the year 2020, but he already set an example for all the upcoming fighters, remaining undefeated throughout his career by winning 29 bouts in all 29 matchups. Recently, his brother-like friend and former teammate Daniel Cormier revealed something on his channel that surprised the whole MMA community.

According to DC, Khabib Nurmagomedov put down the biggest offer of UFC they have ever given to any of their starfighters. Daniel Cormier said while talking to Ben Askren, “Khabib told us he turned down $40 million. He said $40 million, and the dude said $40 million. To come back and fight in the UFC. I don’t know how many fights he was meaning; I don’t know what event. He just said, ‘I turned away $40 million, brother, I’m done.'”

Khabib Nurmagomedov confirms he’s not returning to the UFC

Before Daniel Cormier’s video started to go viral, Khabib Nurmagomedov already made a big statement on his social media when Zlatan Ibrahimović posted a picture with him. Khabib clarified to the fans who were constantly engaging on social media, inquiring about whether UFC 300 is the return of UFC GOAT status fighter.

Khabib Nurmagomedov, in a small statement, denied the rumors of returning to the UFC or at UFC 300. Nurmagomedov decided to stay retired forever, and despite the consistent attempts of UFC president Dana White, he never showed interest in coming to Octagon.

His coach, Javier Mendez, even confirmed that his former student is not returning, “We’re not discussing training. We never have. Khabib is still devoted to what he said. He’s devoting his time to his family. He’s not working people’s corners; he’s not going to ever fight.”

What are your thoughts on whether Khabib Nurmagomedov should make his return to the UFC after already setting higher standards of staying undefeated and not losing any of the fights in his career?