Khabib Nurmagomedov Slams Comeback Rumors: ‘I’m Done’ and Compares Tyson Fury to a Never-Ending Cycle

Khabib Nurmagomedov shuts down return rumours, mentions Tyson Fury cycle

“I’m done. No comebacks. No what-ifs.” That’s the blunt message from UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, who has once again slammed persistent rumors about a potential return to the octagon. But the Dagestani legend didn’t stop there. In a refreshingly honest interview, Khabib also weighed in on boxing’s biggest enigma—Tyson Fury—joking that the Gypsy King is stuck in a “retirement cycle” that never ends [[1]].

With Fury set to face Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11, 2026, after his controversial loss to Oleksandr Usyk in late 2024, the timing of Khabib’s comments couldn’t be more relevant. More surprisingly, Khabib used the moment to deliver a pointed comparison: he values Fury’s career far more than that of fellow combat sports icon Jon Jones—citing Fury’s willingness to take real risks against top-tier opponents.

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Khabib Shuts Down Return Rumors For Good

Despite endless fan petitions, social media speculation, and even promotional teases from Dana White, Khabib remains resolute. “People keep asking, ‘When are you coming back?’” he said with a laugh. “My answer is always the same: never. I retired with a 29–0 record, honored my father’s memory, and kept my word. Why would I risk that for money or fame?” [[1]]

Khabib walked away from MMA in October 2020 after defeating Justin Gaethje at UFC 254—a decision rooted in personal tragedy (his father’s death) and spiritual conviction. Now 37, he’s fully immersed in coaching, promoting fighters through Eagle FC, and raising his family. “My fight now is to build the next generation,” he added. “Not to step back in the cage.”

This latest statement should finally put to rest the Khabib Nurmagomedov return rumors that resurface every time a major UFC event lacks star power.

The ‘Tyson Fury Cycle’: Retirement and Comeback

Khabib then turned his attention to Tyson Fury, whose career has been defined by dramatic swings: world titles, mental health struggles, weight gain, retirement announcements, and spectacular comebacks.

“Look at Fury,” Khabib said with a wry smile. “He retires, un-retires, retires again… it’s like a cycle. One minute he’s fishing, the next he’s fighting for the heavyweight championship. It’s entertaining—but confusing!” [[1]]

He was referring to Fury’s pattern since 2017: announcing retirement after wins over Deontay Wilder, only to return months later. Most recently, after losing to Usyk in December 2024, Fury claimed he was “done forever”—only to sign a bout with Kazakhstan’s Arslanbek Makhmudov for April 2026 [[2]].

While Khabib poked fun at the inconsistency, he made it clear he holds Fury in high regard—not for the theatrics, but for the opponents he’s faced.

Why Khabib Values Fury Over Jon Jones

In a striking comparison that will fuel debate among combat sports fans, Khabib stated plainly: “I respect Tyson Fury more than Jon Jones.”

His reasoning? “Fury fought Wilder twice—knocked him out cold. He took the Usyk fight, even though he knew it was risky. He always picks the hardest path. Jon? He avoided so many great fighters for years. He ducked challenges, changed weight classes to stay safe. That’s not greatness—that’s survival.”

This isn’t just opinion—it’s a reflection of Khabib’s core philosophy. Throughout his career, he called out top contenders, never dodged a challenge, and retired undefeated because he believed true champions don’t need to prove themselves endlessly. “Greatness is in who you fight, not just how many belts you hold,” he emphasized [[3]].

Fury vs. Makhmudov: What to Expect in April

Fury’s upcoming bout against Arslanbek Makhmudov—a relatively unknown but powerful Kazakh heavyweight—is widely seen as a tune-up or “stay-busy” fight. Makhmudov, 34, holds a 22–1 record but has never faced elite opposition [[4]].

Many analysts believe this fight serves two purposes: keeping Fury active while negotiations for a Usyk rematch or a potential showdown with Anthony Joshua continue, and testing whether Fury still has the hunger after his first professional loss.

Khabib, however, warned against underestimating any opponent. “In combat sports, one punch can change everything. Fury better be focused—or his ‘cycle’ might end for real.”

Khabib’s Legacy and the Philosophy of Quitting at the Top

Khabib’s refusal to return isn’t just personal—it’s a statement about integrity in sports. In an era where legends like Tom Brady, LeBron James, and Floyd Mayweather stretch their careers for records or revenue, Khabib chose to walk away while still universally recognized as the best.

“Your legacy is your name,” he often says. “Once you lose, it’s never the same. I’d rather be remembered as undefeated than as someone chasing one last win.”

This mindset resonates deeply with fans tired of athletes overstaying their prime. For more on the psychology of retirement in elite sports, see our feature on [INTERNAL_LINK:why-athletes-should-retire-at-their-peak].

Conclusion: A Champion Who Knows His Worth

By shutting down Khabib Nurmagomedov return rumors and using Tyson Fury’s “cycle” as a foil, Khabib has reinforced what makes him unique: unwavering discipline, clarity of purpose, and a definition of greatness rooted in courage, not longevity. Whether you agree with his take on Fury or Jones, one thing is undeniable—Khabib Nurmagomedov remains a rare voice of authenticity in the noisy world of combat sports.

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