Khabib Nurmagomedov says he’s in his wrestling ‘prime’ six years after abrupt UFC retirement

UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov says he’s wrestling better now than at any time in his legendary fighting career.

Khabib Nurmagomedov remains one of the few UFC greats to leave Mixed Martial Arts at the top of the sport. After defeating current UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, Nurmagomedov opted to hang up the gloves just months after his father’s tragic death.

Six months after his retirement, Nurmagomedov remains a big part of MMA as a coach for fighters such as Islam Makhachev and his cousin, Umar Nurmagomedov. Makhachev, in particular, has repeatedly touted Nurmagomedov’s discipline since retiring, as the UFC Hall of Famer remains a constant presence in training.

Known for his elite wrestling inside the Octagon, Nurmagomedov is arguably one of the greatest fighters in UFC history. But Nurmagomedov might be on another level six years since ending his career.

Khabib Nurmagomedov claims he’s in his wrestling ‘prime’ despite long UFC absence

In a recent appearance on Smol Talk, Nurmagomedov was asked about his wrestling acumen today compared to when he was competing in the UFC, and gave a shocking answer.

“People think my prime was between 2018 and 2020, but I wasn’t in my prime back then. I turned 32 in September 2020, and I retired in October,” Nurmagomedov said.

“So I hadn’t even really begun yet. My grappling has improved tremendously since then. In 2026, it’s much better than it was in 2020. I watch my old fights now and think, ‘How could I have made that mistake here?’ Meanwhile, people watching from the outside say, ‘Wow, what a level.’

“But to me, that’s not the level. My grappling is far better now. And the guys who trained with me in both 2020 and 2026 say the same thing.”

Despite numerous attempts by the UFC to lure Nurmagomedov out of retirement, the UFC legend remains steadfast in his decision to walk away.

How would Khabib Nurmagomedov fare against the current top UFC lightweights? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!