Khabib’s Staggering $40 Million UFC Offer Rejection – Cormier Sheds Light

In a startling revelation, former UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier has disclosed that his former training partner, Khabib Nurmagomedov, turned down a colossal offer from the UFC. Nurmagomedov, who hung up his gloves in 2020, did so as an undefeated lightweight champion and the pound-for-pound king. His decision came post a dominant victory over then-interim champion Justin Gaethje, a fight after which he declared his retirement, honoring a promise made to his mother following the passing of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov.

Despite retiring with an impeccable 29-0 record, UFC president Dana White made several attempts to lure “The Eagle” back into the Octagon. This included a proposed rematch against the notorious former two-division champion Conor McGregor and a dream fight against former welterweight kingpin Georges St-Pierre. However, Khabib remained steadfast in his decision, turning down a staggering $40 million comeback offer.

Daniel Cormier on his YouTube channel: “Khabib turned down $40,000,000 to fight again.”

Cormier: “That guy said no to $40 million to return.”

Cormier, on his YouTube channel, shared, “Khabib turned down $40,000,000 to fight again. That guy said no to $40 million to return. I don’t know what would make him come back if he’s throwing away that kind of money. Though Khabib sometimes ponders a return, it’s his unyielding commitment to a promise he made to his mother that prevails.”

It appears that Nurmagomedov declined a new UFC contract, potentially worth $40 million for several bouts, rather than a single fight.