Khabib Nurmagomedov has defeated Justin Gaethje at UFC 254... but he has also retired from the sport!After successfully beating the American in the second round via submission, he then used the post-fight interview to announce his retirement.It was stated that Gaethje would be the Russian's toughest fight to date, but after just several minutes of action, it was all over and it was Khabib who had his hand raised.The triangle was locked in, and Gaethje had no other option but to tap out.It was clearly an emotional moment for the lightweight champion, and as soon as the bell had rung, he fell to the floor in tears.Moments later, his challenger and opponent joined him in what was a truly beautiful sporting moment.
During his post-fight interview in the Octagon, Khabib then announced his decision to retire from the sport, with the majority of it coming down to the fact he lost his father earlier this year.
"This is my last fight," he confirmed. "There's no way I'm going to come here without my father.
"When the UFC called me about Justin I talked with my mother for three days. She doesn't want me to go fight without my father but I promised her this was going to be my last fight, and if I give my word, I have to follow this."
Khabib retires with a professional record of 29-0.
So despite being one fight away from reaching an unbelievable 30-0, enough is enough for Khabib Nurmagomedov and he will never step foot inside the Octagon again.
This didn't feel like a 'Conor McGregor retirement' either; this felt like something much deeper and much more raw.
The words Khabib spoke after his fight were from the heart and were meaningful; he truly won't step foot inside the cage again, which is a real shame.
A brilliant career ends in truly brilliant fashion.
A true legend to the sport who fully deserves his retirement. His father would be so proud!