Retired UFC star Khabib now helping drug addicts at a rehab centre in Dagestan

Retired UFC star Khabib Nurmagomedov has 'helped over 50 drug addicts' at a rehabilitation centre in his native Dagestan, it has emerged.

Khabib, who retired from UFC in October with an undefeated 29-0 record, is helping out at the clinic with close friend and training partner, Magomedzaid Zaidov.

Zaidov was once a drug addict himself before kicking the habit and opening the rehabilitation centre while forging his own MMA career.

He said Khabib plays a very personal role in motivating addicts at the centre to overcome their problems thanks to his status as an inspiration role model.

Zaidov told the Sport Express: “Khabib himself is very closely involved in the process of helping drug addicts.

"He helped a lot of people. [There are] 50 people who he helped to rehabilitate.

"Khabib took his time, came, paid attention, talked to them. It costs even more than financial aid.

"And the attention that a person pays is worth a lot. Khabib helped a lot with this – the guys from the area who he grew up with."

Reports on Twitter appeared to confirm Khabib's generosity, with one source suggesting the Russian fighter was helping cover the cost of treatment at the centre.

Khabib announced his retirement from the octagon in October 2020 after unifying the Lightweight division with victory over Justin Gaethje.

He is considered by some as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all-time and has beaten the likes of Michael Johnson, Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor.

Since his retirement from UFC, there has been speculation linking Khabib to a change of discipline after a clip of the 32-year-old playing football went viral earlier this year.

Khabib even received an official contract offer from Russian third-tier side FC Kamaz, but the man nicknamed The Eagle did not take up the offer.

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