Khabib Abdulmanapovich Nurmagomedov, born on September 20, 1988, in Sildi, Dagestan ASSR, is a retired Russian mixed martial artist widely celebrated as one of the greatest fighters in the history of the sport. Known by his nickname “The Eagle,” Khabib is revered for his unparalleled 29-0 undefeated record in professional mixed martial arts (MMA) and his reign as the UFC Lightweight Champion from 2018 to 2021. In addition to his combat sports career, he is a two-time Combat Sambo World Champion and a prominent MMA coach and promoter.
This article delves into Khabib’s biography, including his age, family, career milestones, net worth, and lesser-known facts about his life inside and outside the octagon.
Khabib Nurmagomedov Short Details
| Full Name | Khabib Abdulmanapovich Nurmagomedov |
|---|---|
| Nickname | The Eagle |
| Born | September 20, 1988 |
| Age (2025) | 36 years old |
| Hometown | Sildi, Dagestan ASSR, Russia |
| Nationality | Russian |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Weight | 155 lb (70 kg) |
| Reach | 70 inches (178 cm) |
| Profession | Retired MMA Fighter, Coach, Promoter |
| Style | Combat Sambo, Wrestling, Judo |
| Years Active (MMA) | 2008–2020 |
| Record | 29-0-0 (Win-Loss-Draw) |
| Notable Titles | UFC Lightweight Champion, Combat Sambo World Champion |
Early Life and Education
Khabib Nurmagomedov was born into a humble Avar family in the mountainous village of Sildi, Dagestan. Raised in a household deeply rooted in martial arts, his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, a decorated wrestler and coach, converted the family’s ground-floor space into a gym where Khabib began his training. By the age of nine, Khabib was wrestling bears, an unconventional but legendary part of his early martial arts education.
The Nurmagomedov family moved to Makhachkala, the capital of Dagestan, where Khabib began formal training in wrestling at age 12 and judo at 15. He later added combat sambo to his repertoire, following his father’s emphasis on a well-rounded fighting style. Despite his intense focus on martial arts, Khabib balanced his training with academics, later attending Plekhanov Russian University of Economics.
MMA Career
Early Career
Khabib made his professional MMA debut in 2008, dominating local circuits in Russia and Ukraine. His relentless grappling and combat sambo skills led to a remarkable 16-0 record, catching the attention of the UFC, where he signed a six-fight deal in 2011.
Rise to UFC Champion
Khabib’s UFC debut on January 20, 2012, showcased his talents with a third-round submission victory over Kamal Shalorus. Over the next six years, Khabib defeated top contenders such as Rafael dos Anjos, Edson Barboza, and Michael Johnson, cementing his reputation as a dominant force in the lightweight division.
In 2018, Khabib claimed the UFC Lightweight Championship by defeating Al Iaquinta at UFC 223. His subsequent title defenses included iconic victories over Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje. Known for his “mauling” style, Khabib’s fights often showcased relentless grappling and strategic dominance.
Retirement
On October 24, 2020, after defeating Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, Khabib announced his retirement, citing a promise to his mother after the passing of his father and mentor, Abdulmanap. He left the sport with an unmatched 29-0 record, securing his legacy as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history.
Achievements and Records
- UFC Lightweight Champion (2018–2021)
- Inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame (2022)
- Longest Lightweight Champion Reign in UFC history (1,077 days)
- Most Takedowns in a Single UFC Fight: 21 (against Abel Trujillo)
- Multiple-time Performance of the Night Award winner
- Two-time Combat Sambo World Champion
Family and Personal Life
Khabib is married to Patimat, and the couple has three children. His father, Abdulmanap, played a pivotal role in shaping his career but tragically passed away in 2020 due to complications from COVID-19. Khabib remains deeply connected to his Dagestani roots and is a devout Sunni Muslim.
Family Table
| Family Member | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov | Father (Deceased) |
| Patimat | Wife |
| Magomed | Son |
| Amina | Daughter |
| Usman Nurmagomedov | Cousin, Bellator Fighter |
Net Worth and Business Ventures
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s estimated net worth in 2025 is approximately $45 million, amassed through his UFC career, endorsements, and entrepreneurial ventures.
Income Sources
- MMA Career Earnings: Estimated at $21 million
- Endorsements: Partnerships with Reebok, Toyota, and Gorilla Energy
- Business Ventures: Founder of Eagle Fighting Championship (EFC) and various investments in fitness and tech.
| Net Worth | $45 Million (2025) |
|---|---|
| Primary Income | UFC Career |
| Secondary Income | Endorsements, EFC |
| Other Ventures | Coaching, Promotions |
Lesser-Known Facts
- Bear Wrestling: Khabib famously wrestled bears as part of his childhood training.
- Instagram Popularity: He is the most-followed Russian on Instagram, with over 34 million followers.
- Football Enthusiast: Khabib is an avid supporter of Liverpool FC and Real Madrid.
- Language Proficiency: He speaks Avar, Russian, and English fluently.
- Cultural Symbol: His signature papakha hat represents his Dagestani heritage.
- Religious Devotion: Khabib is a practicing Sunni Muslim and often speaks about his faith.
- Eagle Fighting Championship: Post-retirement, he purchased and rebranded the Gorilla Fighting Championship.
- Trainer and Mentor: Khabib has coached top fighters, including UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev.
- World Record: Holds the UFC record for most takedowns in a single fight.
- Honorary Citizen: He was made an honorary citizen of Grozny, Chechnya.
FAQs
- Q: What is Khabib Nurmagomedov’s MMA record?
A: Khabib retired undefeated with a record of 29-0. - Q: When did Khabib retire?
A: Khabib retired on October 24, 2020, after his fight with Justin Gaethje. - Q: Is Khabib a coach now?
A: Yes, Khabib transitioned into coaching after retirement but stepped away in 2023 to focus on family. - Q: What is Khabib’s fighting style?
A: Khabib is known for his grappling-based mauling style, utilizing wrestling, judo, and sambo. - Q: What is Khabib’s net worth?
A: Khabib’s net worth is approximately $45 million in 2025.
Conclusion
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s journey from the mountains of Dagestan to global superstardom is a testament to discipline, resilience, and excellence. As a fighter, coach, and promoter, Khabib continues to inspire millions, leaving an indelible mark on the world of mixed martial arts.
This article is based on publicly available information and aims to provide an informative overview. Readers are encouraged to verify details independently.
