Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has hinted that his coaching career may be nearing its end.
Since retiring from active competition in 2020, Khabib has been a constant presence in his fighters’ corners, helping them achieve success at the sport’s highest levels.
However, it seems the grind of coaching is beginning to take its toll on the Dagestani legend.
Khabib made it clear in a recent interview with ESPN MMA that his time as a coach will be tied to the careers of his fighters…
And he has no intention of extending his role beyond that:
When the guys finish, I’m going to finish.
I hope it’s going to be very fast, I’m tired of all this.We’ve been on top of this game for like, seven, eight years, since I became a champion.
All these guys were with me, they were with my father when I was starting.
Khabib acknowledged the deep bond he shares with his team, which has been a key motivator in his coaching journey.
However, he also expressed a desire to step away from the sport once his current responsibilities are fulfilled:
There are still six, eight [fighters competing] at a very high level.
When they finish, I will finish too.
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