Khabib Nurmagomedov gained a reputation as a calculated and fierce competitor in the UFC, especially in his matchups against Conor McGregor. Their heated rivalry culminated in a showdown at UFC 229 in 2018, where Nurmagomedov decisively defeated McGregor in the fourth round. The lead-up to the fight was marked by contentious trash talk, including insults targeting Nurmagomedov and his family.
Prior to the bout, Nurmagomedov conveyed a strong desire to face McGregor in the octagon, expressing his determination directly to UFC CEO Dana White. Following a dominant performance that almost resulted in a knockout before ending in a submission win, Nurmagomedov’s victory celebration turned tumultuous as he leaped out of the cage to confront McGregor’s team, sparking a chaotic brawl that required security and law enforcement to intervene.
Reflecting on the incident, Nurmagomedov acknowledged harboring unresolved feelings towards McGregor and a desire to inflict more damage beyond just winning the fight. While the post-fight melee drew criticism from White, Nurmagomedov argued that UFC should have foreseen such a volatile situation given the animosity between the fighters.
Despite McGregor’s continued efforts to goad Nurmagomedov into a rematch, the retired fighter remains unperturbed by the provocations. He quipped about leaving the past behind, stating that what occurred in Vegas should stay in Vegas, and he does not let past rivalries consume him. Nurmagomedov has since retired from MMA as promised to his mother, choosing not to engage with McGregor’s taunts any further.
