Khabib Nurmagomedov gives up UFC belt with new champion to be crowned in May

Khabib Nurmagomedov has given up his UFC title after confirming his retirement from mixed martial arts.

Michael Chandler and Charles Oliveira will now clash for the vacant belt at UFC 262 on May 15.

Nurmagomedov had first announced he was hanging up his gloves last October following his win over Justin Gaethje.

But UFC president Dana White attempted to convince his champion to fight on – and attempt to take his record to 30-0.

He appeared to have convinced the Dagestani when Nurmagomedov tweeted a positive update earlier this week.

But the 32-year-old has now confirmed his retirement following a meeting with White.

He said: "It was a good dinner with some great people. Dana White, thank you so much brother and the entire UFC team for the opportunity to prove myself, you guys have changed many lives forever because of this sport.  

"Dana – I’ll never forget your attitude towards me, my father did not forget and my sons will remember you. Today there was a real conversation between real men.

"Also thank you to all team, sparing partners and all fans. I hope you will accept my decision and understand me.

White added, "29-0 it is. He is officially retired", along with the '100' emoji.

The UFC president added: "It was incredible to watch you work; thank you for EVERYTHING and enjoy whatever is next my friend."

Nurmagomedov revealed last yeaer that he had promised his mother that he would not fight on without his father in his corner after he passed away following a battle with Covid-19.

But this week he met with former UFC CEO Lorenzo Fertitta, and later tweeted: "It was good to see you Lorenzo. Dana White, send me location."

Rather than a fight location, it seems it was for his final meeting with White.

The UFC moved immediately to book Chandler and Oliveira for the vacant belt in May with Chandler rewarded for his debut win with the promotion in January.

He knocked out Dan Hooker in the first round in the co-main event to Dustin Poirier's revenge win over Conor McGregor.

Poirier was expected to be given the next title shot but instead looks set for a trilogy fight with McGregor in July.

The winner of that would likely be next in the line for a shot at the belt.

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