Khabib Nurmagomedov, the legendary Russian mixed martial artist, boasts an estimated net worth of $40 million.
Revered as one of the most dominant athletes in UFC history, Khabib retired with an immaculate record of 29 wins and zero losses, a feat unmatched in modern MMA.
Known for his unmatched grappling and relentless control, he reigned as the UFC Lightweight Champion from 2018 until his retirement in 2020, cementing his place among the sport’s greatest icons.
Globally celebrated for his humility and discipline, Khabib’s fighting style—rooted in sambo, wrestling, and combat judo—became synonymous with precision and dominance.
Beyond the cage, he is a national hero in Dagestan and one of Russia’s most influential public figures, commanding over 24 million Instagram followers and a legacy that transcends sport.
Career Earnings And Financial Highlights
Throughout his professional MMA journey, Khabib Nurmagomedov amassed approximately $14.77 million in disclosed earnings.
However, the bulk of his fortune came from his final few fights, where his superstardom translated into multi-million-dollar paydays. Below is a breakdown of his key earnings over the years:
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2014: Earned $64,000 from his victory over Rafael dos Anjos — $32,000 to show and an additional $32,000 as a win bonus.
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2016: Defeated Darrell Horcher, earning $135,000, including base pay, win bonus, and a $5,000 promotional incentive.
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Later in 2016, he claimed $170,000 after defeating Michael Johnson at UFC 205, with $80,000 guaranteed, a matching win bonus, and $10,000 in promotions.
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2017: Took home $230,000 following a victory over Edson Barboza, including $85,000 base pay, $85,000 win bonus, and performance incentives.
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2018: Earned $530,000 after defeating Al Iaquinta, which included $500,000 guaranteed and $30,000 in bonuses.
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2018 (vs. Conor McGregor): Collected $1.54 million — $2 million to show up and a $40,000 fight incentive, reduced by a $500,000 fine for post-fight misconduct.
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2019 (vs. Dustin Poirier): Scored $6.09 million, including bonuses, marking one of the richest purses in UFC history.
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2020 (vs. Justin Gaethje): Matched his previous payout with another $6.09 million, closing his career on an emphatic note.
Early Life And Background
Born on September 20, 1988, in Sildi, Dagestan, then part of the Soviet Union, Khabib Abdulmanapovich Nurmagomedov was immersed in combat sports from a young age.
Under the guidance of his father and coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Khabib developed his wrestling foundation through unorthodox training methods — famously including grappling with bears.
By age 15, he had transitioned to judo and sambo, eventually mastering a hybrid fighting style that would redefine modern MMA.
His upbringing in Dagestan’s rugged mountains instilled resilience and mental toughness — traits that later defined his career inside the octagon.
Rise To UFC Stardom
Khabib’s professional MMA career began in 2008, when he went undefeated in Russia and Ukraine, compiling a 16–0 record.
His performances caught the attention of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he debuted in 2012 against Kamal Shalorus.
He quickly rose through the ranks, defeating names like Gleison Tibau, Thiago Tavares, Abel Trujillo, and Pat Healy through dominant wrestling displays.
After conquering Rafael dos Anjos in 2014, Khabib’s title pursuit gained momentum. In 2018, he defeated Al Iaquinta to claim the vacant UFC Lightweight Championship, later defending it against Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje.
Despite repeated attempts to face fellow contender Tony Ferguson, the long-anticipated fight never materialized. Khabib officially retired in 2020, honoring a promise made to his late father.
Fighting Style And Strategy
Khabib’s combat approach is built around pressure wrestling and positional control. Once he secures a takedown, he immobilizes opponents by trapping their limbs and delivering relentless ground-and-pound.
His suffocating grappling style has often been described as a blend of chess and dominance, neutralizing even the most dangerous strikers.
An intriguing aspect of his personality is his tendency to speak to his opponents mid-fight, often urging them to “give up” while maintaining control — a psychological tactic that underscores his composure and confidence.
Controversies And High-Profile Clashes
Khabib’s rivalry with Conor McGregor remains one of the most infamous feuds in MMA history.
In 2018, McGregor attacked a bus carrying Khabib and other fighters at the Barclays Center in New York, injuring multiple athletes and leading to McGregor’s arrest.
The tension culminated at UFC 229, where Khabib submitted McGregor in the fourth round.
However, the post-fight chaos — in which Khabib jumped over the cage to confront McGregor’s cornerman, Dillon Danis — resulted in suspensions and heavy fines.
Khabib was fined $500,000 and suspended for nine months, while McGregor received a $50,000 fine and a six-month suspension.
Despite the controversy, Khabib’s dominance in the octagon and his dignified demeanor outside of it solidified his reputation as a true champion.
Legacy And Post-Retirement Influence
Since his retirement, Khabib has transitioned into coaching and promotion, mentoring fighters under his Eagle MMA banner. His disciplined lifestyle, humility, and spiritual foundation have earned him respect far beyond the fighting community.
Today, he remains a global ambassador for combat sports and a cultural symbol of integrity, family loyalty, and faith — proof that greatness extends beyond the cage.
FAQ
Why Did Khabib Nurmagomedov Retire From The UFC?
Khabib retired in 2020 after fulfilling a promise to his late father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, vowing never to fight again without him by his side.
Did Khabib Ever Lose A Fight In His Career?
No, Khabib Nurmagomedov retired with an unblemished record of 29-0, making him one of the few undefeated champions in mixed martial arts history.
What Is Khabib Doing After Retirement?
After retiring, Khabib became a coach and promoter, leading the Eagle MMA team and mentoring top fighters while expanding his influence in global sports management.
What Fighting Style Made Khabib So Dominant?
Khabib’s success stems from his elite grappling, sambo, and wrestling, using intense ground control and pressure tactics to overwhelm opponents.
Who Was Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Toughest Opponent?
Many fans consider Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier among his most high-profile challenges, though Khabib’s dominance was evident in all 29 bouts.
Did Khabib Ever Fight Tony Ferguson?
No, despite being scheduled several times, the highly anticipated Khabib vs. Ferguson bout never took place due to injuries and travel restrictions.
How Much Did Khabib Earn In Total From His UFC Career?
Throughout his UFC tenure, Khabib earned roughly $14.77 million in disclosed fight purses and performance bonuses.
What Makes Khabib Nurmagomedov A Legend In MMA?
Khabib’s blend of humility, discipline, and undefeated dominance — coupled with his technical mastery — cements his status as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history.