Networth: $40 Millions
Khabib Nurmagomedov, the Russian mixed martial artist, has a net worth of $40 million. Widely recognized as one of the greatest fighters to grace the octagon, Khabib achieved an impeccable record of 29 wins and zero losses before retiring from the UFC in 2020.
He held the title of the longest-reigning UFC Lightweight Champion, maintaining his championship reign from 2018 until his retirement.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has been hailed by numerous sources as the best pound-for-pound fighter in UFC history and the greatest lightweight fighter of all time. He hails from Dagestan, Russia, and follows the Islamic faith as an ethnic Muslim Avar.
Khabib’s fighting style heavily relies on grappling, sambo, and wrestling. Today, he is one of the most renowned Russian athletes globally, boasting a massive following of over 24 million on Instagram.
Career Earnings:
Throughout his MMA career, Khabib has earned a substantial amount of money. His total earnings amount to $14,770,000. It is important to note that a significant portion of these earnings came from his last two fights. Here’s a breakdown of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s earnings from various fights over the years:
- In 2014, Khabib earned a total prize money of $64,000 for his fight against Rafael dos Anjos. This included $32,000 for showing up and an additional $32,000 as a win bonus.
- In 2016, he earned $135,000 for his victory over Darrell Horcher. This comprised a $65,000 show-up fee, a $65,000 win bonus, and a $5,000 promotional bonus.
- Also in 2016, Khabib earned $170,000 for defeating Michael Johnson at UFC 205. He received a guaranteed payout of $80,000, a win bonus of $80,000, and a promotional bonus of $10,000.
- In 2017, Khabib earned $230,000 after his victory against Edson Barboza at UFC 219. This included a base payout of $85,000, a win bonus of $85,000, a promotional bonus of $10,000, and a performance bonus of $50,000.
- For his next fight against Al Iaquinta in 2018, Nurmagomedov earned $530,000, consisting of a guaranteed payout of $500,000 and a $30,000 fight week incentive.
- Following his triumph over Conor McGregor later in 2018, Khabib earned a total of $1,540,000. This included a $2,000,000 show-up fee and a $40,000 incentive. However, he was fined $500,000 for a post-fight incident, resulting in a total earning of $1,540,000.
- After defeating Dustin Poirier in 2019, Khabib walked away with $6,090,000, which included a $6 million guaranteed payout and bonuses amounting to $90,000.
- In 2020, during his last fight against Justin Gaethje, Khabib earned the same amount of $6.09 million. Some sources suggest that he may have earned more than his previous fight, marking it as a career-high payday before his retirement.
Early Life:
Khabib Abdulmanapovich Nurmagomedov was born on September 20, 1988, in Sildi, Dagestan ASSR, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union. From an early age, Khabib began learning wrestling techniques under the guidance of his father. Notably, his training even involved wrestling with bears. After moving to Makhachkala, he started training in judo at the age of 15.
MMA Career:
Khabib’s journey in MMA commenced in 2008 when he competed in Russia. After accumulating a 16-0 record in Russia and Ukraine, he joined the UFC in 2011. His first fight in the UFC took place in 2012 against Kamal Shalorus. Over the following years, he defeated notable fighters like Gleison Tibau, Thiago Tavares, Abel Trujillo, and Pat Healy, often securing victories through TKOs and submissions.
After defeating Rafael dos Anjos in 2014, Nurmagomedov began seeking a shot at the title. He went on to win fights against Darrell Horcher, Michael Johnson, and Edson Barboza, eventually earning a title shot against Al Iaquinta. Khabib emerged victorious, becoming the new UFC Lightweight Champion. In the ensuing years, he successfully defended his title against Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje. In 2020, Khabib announced his retirement. Notably, he has never faced Tony Ferguson, another prominent Lightweight contender, despite several failed attempts to arrange the matchup.
Fighting Style:
In his fights, Khabib consistently relies on his exceptional wrestling skills. Once he takes his opponent down, he neutralizes their ability to strike back by restricting their movement. Khabib is known to engage in conversations with his opponents while dominating them with his grappling techniques.
Legacy and Accomplishments:
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy extends beyond his impressive record and earnings. He is regarded as one of the most dominant champions in UFC history. Not only did he retire undefeated with a flawless record of 29-0, but he also showcased a level of dominance rarely seen in the sport. Khabib’s grappling prowess and relentless pressure allowed him to control and smother his opponents, often earning him decisive victories.
Furthermore, Nurmagomedov holds the record for the longest winning streak in UFC lightweight history. His numerous accolades include the Submission of the Year award in 2013 for his fight-ending rear-naked choke against Abel Trujillo. He also received the Performance of the Night bonus on six occasions throughout his career.
Beyond the Octagon:
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s impact reaches beyond his achievements inside the octagon. He is widely respected for his humility, discipline, and strong work ethic. Khabib’s devout faith as a practicing Muslim has played a significant role in shaping his character and approach to his career.
Additionally, Nurmagomedov is known for his philanthropic efforts. He has contributed to various charitable causes, including building schools and hospitals in his native Dagestan region. Khabib has consistently emphasized the importance of giving back to his community and helping those in need.
Retirement and Future Ventures:
After announcing his retirement in 2020, Khabib Nurmagomedov has explored various avenues beyond MMA. He has expressed interest in promoting MMA events in Russia and has shown support for the growth of the sport in his home country.
Khabib has also pursued opportunities in business and entrepreneurship. He has launched his own clothing line, “Eagle FC,” and has expressed ambitions to become a successful entrepreneur.
Despite retiring from professional competition, Khabib’s influence and presence continue to resonate in the world of MMA, as his name remains synonymous with excellence and dominance in the sport.
Controversy:
In 2018, Khabib found himself involved in controversy when Conor McGregor attacked him and several other fighters while they were sitting on a bus at the Barclays Center in New York City. McGregor threw a metal dolly at the bus, shattering windows and causing injuries to Michael Chiesa and Ray Borg.
McGregor’s actions were purportedly in retaliation for an earlier incident where Nurmagomedov and his friends assaulted Artem Lobov, a close friend of McGregor. Following McGregor’s escape, a warrant was issued for his arrest. He subsequently turned himself in and faced charges of assault and criminal mischief.
After defeating McGregor later that year, Khabib jumped over the octagon fence and assaulted Dillon Danis, a member of McGregor’s corner. Chaos ensued as a massive fight broke out. McGregor attempted to leave the octagon but was attacked by Khabib’s cousin.
In the ensuing chaos, two of Nurmagomedov’s cornermen attacked McGregor from behind. As a result, Khabib’s payment for the fight was initially withheld. Although his $2 million payout was eventually released, Nurmagomedov had to pay a $500,000 fine and received a nine-month suspension from the UFC. McGregor, on the other hand, was fined $50,000 and suspended for six months.
