Three years ago, Khabib Nurmagomedov walked out of the Octagon and retired as one of the top fighters in UFC history. Many believed he would never return, especially after he also stepped back from a coaching job. But recent events suggest that they may return. UFC-legend and Hall of Famer Chael Sonnen looked at some interesting actions from Dana White and the UFC that could spell ‘The Eagle’s’ return.
Khabib’s Financial Problems
Khabib reportedly owes the Russian government $3 million, which is a huge financial burden. Despite this, the Russian MMA legend is silent on a possible comeback. This theory comes from a recent UFC social media post.
Annoying UFC Khabib vs. McGregor rematch?
The UFC recently released a no-commentary version of the iconic fight between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor on YouTube, an event that coincided with McGregor’s 36th birthday that surprised many fans, as it featured a familiar Khabib him as another part of his humble has been revealed.
Discussing the video with Tim Welch, Chael Sonnen said, “Do you see this segment that the UFC put out on Khabib? It was a fight between Khabib and Conor, but it was rearranged and trimmed and then vacated. It is not an explanation. When you’re done watching, it’s one thing. This really makes Khabib look good. It’s a really nice story about Khabib.”
Building Hope for Khabib’s Return
Sonnen believes the move is strategic, meaning the UFC is building anticipation for Khabib’s return. “When did you realize the UFC was editing old videos, reloading them, putting them out if they weren’t fighting? If they pick an open fight or something you can see where they’ll do it if it makes Connor better off because supposedly he’s still under contract,” Sonnen added.
Sonnen elaborated further, “When was the last time you saw a guy who couldn’t make much money go with his option against the guy you still said? Something is going on with Khabib.”
Khabib Training Actively
Khabib is still training, notably with his cousin Umar Nurmagomedov, despite not having made any indication that he will be back. In Dubai, Khabib has been working hard with Umar in anticipation of their big bout in August against Cory Sandhagen. In a recent YouTube video, Khabib can be seen having fun with his crew while playing Dagestani hoops, suggesting that he is still in the fighting mood. Fans can still hope for a potential comeback because Khabib is still very much involved in the sport, as evidenced by his dedication to training and helping his cousin, even in the face of financial difficulties and legal challenges.
Chael Sonnen’s Hard Case
Despite Khabib’s legal troubles and financial issues, Sonnen’s argument for the UFC’s social media strategy is compelling. The UFC’s decision to highlight Khabib in such a manner suggests that they may be laying the groundwork for his return. If Khabib does decide to return, it will undoubtedly be one of the most anticipated comebacks in UFC history.
The fighter is still on trial, and they are waiting to see if these tricky details will be formally announced. Until then, fans can speculate and hope that the ‘Eagle’ flies inside the Octagon again.
