Home » UFC » “Couldn’t happen to a more deserving person” – Henry Cejudo and others react as Khabib Nurmagomedov makes his way into the UFC hall of fame

Former UFC lightweight champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov becomes the first fighter to be inducted into the UFC Hall Of Fame- Class of 2022

Widely accepted as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history, Khabib Nurmagomedov retired with tearful eyes and laid his gloves on the mat, following his UFC 254 victory against Justin Gaethje. The Dagestani has since been working towards building his own fight promotion- Eagles FC, and coaching a fresh breed of Russian fighters. In doing so, he’s keeping his late father Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s legacy alive.

Khabib Nurmagomedov watch
Khabib Nurmagomedov with his signature watch from Jacob and Co (Credits: Khabib Nurmagomedov Instagram)

Nurmagomedov (29-0) was in attendance at UFC 272 in Las Vegas on Saturday when the UFC announced that he’ll join the 2022 Hall of Fame Class. He will be inducted into the Hall of Fame’s modern fighter wing.

“Khabib is one of the greatest athletes to ever compete in professional sports,” UFC president Dana White said. “No one dominated their opponents the way Khabib did, and to retire undefeated, as lightweight champion and the No. 1 pound-for-pound athlete in the world is an incredible accomplishment. It will be an honor to induct him into the UFC Hall of Fame this summer.”

This acclaim by the promotion is a true testament to the respect that Khabib commanded from his peers, and his dominant career & honorable legacy.

Pros reacts to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Hall of Fame induction

During UFC 272 broadcast it was announced that former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov would be inducted into the UFC Hall Of Fame later this summer as part of the modern wing.

The fan-favourite, Khabib, was in attendance for the UFC 272 event and received a massive cheer from the audience after a video was played showcasing highlights from his brilliant UFC Career. Khabib, who retired from fighting in 2020, still remains a big part of the sport.

He has adopted the role of a promoter and coach, trying to give back to the sport of mixed martial arts. Check out how the pros, starting off with Henry Cejudo reacted to him being inducted into the UFC Hall Of Fame:

https://twitter.com/Arda/status/1500314872474656769

Khabib joins Georges St-Pierre, Rashad Evans, Michael Bisping, Ronda Rousey, Urijah Faber, BJ Penn and Forrest Griffin in that category.

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