Khabib On Barboza's Retirement After UFC 330

Khabib Nurmagomedov called Edson Barboza a legend after his former opponent retired at UFC 330 last weekend.

Barboza, who lost to Nurmagomedov via unanimous decision at UFC 219 in a lightweight title eliminator seven years ago, dropped his gloves in the cage after his latest defeat. The 40-year-old Brazilian made his promotional debut at UFC 123 and scored notable wins over Paul Felder, Beneil Dariush, and Anthony Pettis across a decorated run.

Khabib's Reaction From UFC 330 Backstage

Nurmagomedov was preparing Islam Makhachev for his welterweight title defense against Ian Machado Garry when Barboza announced his retirement. In footage captured by Anatomy of a Fighter and reported by BJPenn.com, the undefeated former lightweight champion shared his thoughts on his old rival's decision. "Long time ago, the sport left him. But today, he leaves the sport, too," Nurmagomedov said. "When you're 40 years old, you have to think about your family. Family is better than being beat up like this. Just my opinion. But he's a legend!"

The UFC 219 bout between the two marked a crucial step in Nurmagomedov's path to lightweight gold. That unanimous decision victory earned him the title shot against Al Iaquinta at UFC 223, where he captured the belt that would anchor a 29-0 career. Nurmagomedov retired in 2020 following a submission win over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, fulfilling a promise to his mother after his father Abdulmanap's death.

Makhachev successfully defended his welterweight championship against Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 330, with Nurmagomedov coaching from cageside. The champion is now considered the UFC's pound-for-pound number one fighter.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Khabib Nurmagomedov praises ‘legend’ Edson Barboza after former rival’s retirement