Khabib Nurmagomedov's father has decided that he will continue fighting
Ultimately, he left the decision to his father. After injuring himself once again and being forced to pull out of yet another bout, top lightweight contender Khabib Nurmagomedov (22-0) was unsure of whether or not he would ever fight again.
The 27-year-old Russian left the decision of what he would do with his life up to his coach and father, Abdulmanap. UFC Tonight reports that the wrestler's dad told his son that he shouldn't give up until he became world champion.
According to the report, Nurmagomedov plans to rest for the rest of this month from his rib injuries, and then attempt to fight again during Super Bowl weekend. Nurmagomedov's management told FS1 that they are interested in fighting Al Iaquinta upon his return, though the New Yorker also just decided to undergo knee surgery that could keep him out of action for more than half a year.
Khabib's dad told him that it wasn't yet his time to leave and that after he gets UFC gold, he can decide for himself whether or not he should retire. The fighter has not competed since 2014, when he beat now champion Rafael dos Anjos.
The undefeated fighter's management told UFC Tonight that Abdulmanap is the boss of Khabib, and that the Dagestani star is obedient to his father. His team also reportedly decided that they need to customize his training camps around him and be more selfish, to ensure that he gets the attention he needs, presumably to perform well and stay healthy.
"Fighting is in my blood," Nurmagomedov said.
"It is my life, and this is what I do best in my life."
