Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov is now chasing his football aspirations after signing up for the third-tier Russian team FC Legion Dynamo
Khabib Nurmagomedov had stunned the world last year when he announced his retirement from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). But the Eagle seems to committed to his decision as he has reportedly signed a contract with a third-tier Russian team FC Legion Dynamo. Read on to know more about his decision.
Khabib Nurmagomedov Chases His Football Aspirations As He Joins Russian Team
Khabib retired from UFC following his one final victory against American Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, last October. Apparently, this decision had somethin to do with a promise Khabib had made to his mother. It was also his first fight after the death of his father Abdulmanap, due to COVID-19. Despite several offers, he remains retired with an undefeated record.
In January, The Eagle revealed his intentions to transition to football in a tweet, saying that he was a free agent and ready to accept offers for his football debut.
Preparing for my football debut ⚽️
I’m free agent, and ready to accept offers.
Готовлюсь к дебюту на большом футболе, жду предложения, будем рассматривать. https://t.co/V2NlBX5iqD— khabib nurmagomedov (@TeamKhabib) January 24, 2021
The Football Club Legion Dynamo is reportedly based out of Nurmagomedov’s hometown of Dagestan. Founded in 2015, it has been consistently participating in the third division of the Russian Football League since the 2016-17 season. The club had offered Khabib a contract back in June this year. However, this Friday it shared a photo of Club President Shamil Lakhiyalov shaking hands with Khabib, hinting that the deal was made.
More About FC Legion Dynamo And Khabib Nurmagomedov
Playing in the third-tier Russian Professional Football League, FC Legion Dynamo is a Russian football team from Makhachkala. They are currently fourth in the table and have garnered 20 points from 12 matches so far. Khabib, on the other hand, was the longest-reigning UFC Champion during his time at the promotion, from which he retired with 29 wins and no losses.
He is a two-time Combat Sambo World Champion, with a background in sambo, judo and wrestling. Th Eagle is widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time and the first Muslim to ever win a UFC title.