Conor McGregor Credits Khabib For Win, Responds to Retirement

Although it looks like Conor McGregor’s long campaign to secure a rematch with Khabib Nurmagomedov has ended, the former champ wished his rival well, after he announced he’s retiring.

McGregor responds to Khabib’s big win and retirement

As you surely know, Nurmagomedov took on Justin Gaethje in the headliner of UFC 254 on Saturday. Although Gaethje scored with a couple of hard leg kicks, and threatened with some big hooks, Khabib’s wrestling and top game ruled the day, again.

After taking Gaethje to the floor not long into round two, Nurmagomedov rolled into a fight ending, triangle-choke. During his post-fight interview, the lightweight champ announced he’s retiring on account of the passing of his father Abdulmanap earlier this year (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“Today I want to say it was my last fight. No way I’m gonna come here without my father,” Nurmagomedov said.

“It was first time after what happened with my father. When UFC called me with Justin, I talked with my mother three days.

She don’t (want me) to go fight without father, but I promised her it’s gonna be my last fight. And if I give my word, I have to follow this.”

It wasn’t long before McGregor had tweeted at Khabib, but as you can see, it wasn’t to light up his rival.

Good performance @TeamKhabib.I will carry on.
Respect and condolences on your father again also. To you and family.
Yours sincerely, The McGregors.

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So, on one hand, it’s kind of surprising to see McGregor wishing Khabib well. After all, ever since his 2018 loss to Khabib, he’s repeatedly trashed the undefeated fighter and called for a rematch.

In fact, not long ago, McGregor was claiming he was beating Khabib in their fight, before he was submitted.

That said, when Khabib’s father was hospitalized earlier this year, McGregor extended well wishes and he did so after the renowned coach passed away.

Further, even Khabib’s biggest detractors have to concede that his performance last night was awe-inspiring.

All this aside, it’s going to be interesting to see what happens now with Conor. Will he fight Dustin Poirier on January 23rd? Will that bout be for the now vacant lightweight title?

Or might the UFC shift gears and book McGregor – Gaethje for the belt?