Khabib Nurmagomedov ended an extraordinary career on a high on Saturday night. 

The Eagle beat Justin Gaethje by technical submission with a triangle choke to ensure he bows out of UFC with an incredible 29-0 record. 

There were so many remarkable elements of the 32-year-old's triumph, not least his ability to overcome an immensely difficult year personally. 

Indeed, upon confirming his retirement in his post-fight interview, Khabib revealed that he did not want to return to the Octagon again without his father Abdulmanap, who sadly passed away due to coronavirus complications in July. 

In physical terms, Khabib also showed his unparalleled resilience as it emerged afterwards that he had broken his foot just three weeks before the fight. 

In a press conference, Dana White admitted that UFC 254's main event could have been in jeopardy due to the injury. 

"We are all lucky that we got to see him fight tonight because apparently [Khabib] was in the hospital with a broken foot three weeks ago," White said. 

"I think he has two broken toes and a bone in his foot broken, that’s what his corner told me.

"He never told anyone, was just walking around as normal, he is one of the toughest human beings on the planet."

His team also stated that he had been suffering from mumps in his training camp leading up to his swansong fight. 

"He is the No1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world and you have to start talking about him having GOAT status with whoever else you think is the GOAT," White added. 

"When guys want to fight, they fight and when they don’t they don’t.

"You have got to give them time and let them heal mentally more than physically, with what he has gone through losing his father.

"We are all lucky to have seen him on Saturday night."

It makes his win over Gaethje all the more spectacular and ensured Khabib went out on his own terms - and with some style.