In his remarkable UFC career, Khabib Nurmagomedov has secured numerous victories through submission. One of the most talked-about submission wins was against Michael Johnson at UFC 205. As such, it even garnered a response from the well-known American rapper Snoop Dogg. Recently, the former UFC champion reminisced about that impressive submission win.
Khabib Nurmagomedov recently attended a press conference in Malaysia. In that press conference, the โEagleโ delved into several intriguing topics. It ranged from his family to his current training schedules. Moreover, the former UFC champion also talked about some of his highly buzzed fights. During that conversation, he also recalled convincing Michael Johnson to tap out and save his arm.
The UFC legend mentioned that he could have easily broken Michael Johnsonโs hand with that Kimura lock. However, he chose not to. The Kimura is a vicious, brutal arm-breaking lock, and several fighters have fallen prey to it. With that win against Johnson, Khabib Nurmagomedov extended his undefeated record to 24-0. Later, he went on to become one of the greatest lightweight fighters of all time.
Khabib says his goal in MMA wasn’t to hurt people, and gives the Michael Johnson fight as an example:
“When I was fighting with [Michael Johnson], I understand he is not my level and I give him adviceโฆ
When I take his arm, I really can break his arm. But I don’t do this and Iโฆ pic.twitter.com/dVRPEiumll
โ Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 4, 2024
โThe Eagleโ has officially retired from his illustrious MMA career. Despite persistent calls from fans for his return, Nurmagomedov has dismissed the possibility of a comeback. His remarkable performances and unparalleled skill have earned him widespread acclaim in the world. Not only that, but he has also garnered praise from numerous notable celebrities throughout his active years.
When Snoop Dogg reacted to Khabib Nurmagomedovโs UFC 205 victory
Before his fight against Michael Johnson, Khabib Nurmagomedov had mostly won by decision, making him less popular among fight fans and the community. People often prefer to see impressive victories through knockouts or submissions. At that time, the Dagestani fighter had only secured 3 out of 7 wins via knockout or submission.
The fight between Johnson and Nurmagomedov not only marked a turning point for Eagle but also earned him the recognition every professional fighter desires. Interestingly, popular American rapper Snoop Dogg appeared to have watched the Johnson vs. Khabib fight. Moreover, he also posted a video of himself providing live commentary on it.
After retiring, the Dagestani is focused on training his fellow countrymen and brothers. Two of his standout disciples are UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and UFC bantamweight contender Umar Nurmagomedov. With that, it will be interesting to see how much Eagle excels in his coaching role.