Former UFC Lightweight Champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov, hasn’t fought in the octagon since October 2020, but he made headlines last week. Khabib purchased Russian MMA promotion, Gorilla Fighting Championship, and held a press conference for the rebranded ‘Eagle Fighting Championship’ promotion.
Khabib spoke out against the UFC’s ring girls and doesn’t see the need in having ring girls parade around the octagon in between rounds. “Look, I don’t want to offend anyone. Ring girls are the most useless people in martial arts. What is their function?”
“I sit with my father (at a fight). Every person has his own preferences – the culture and values. I come to fight night. Sit with my father. These people (ring girls) are passing by and showing people that it’s the second round. But no one looks at the plate (round number). I feel uncomfortable with my father. I am not against it. If you want, you can do it, but don’t impose it to me. Do it aside. There are designated places for it. I think we must not mix all of it. This is my private opinion.”
Khabib acknowledged the difference in western culture and customs and how it makes him feel uncomfortable given his background. Khabib is a devout Muslim that grew up in the remote mountains of Dagestan, so it’s not entirely shocking that he disagrees with the Western tradition of ring girls. Khabib has also previously been on record explaining his disapproval of women MMA fighters.
Superstar ring girls Arianny Celeste and Brittney Palmer got the last word against Khabib’s comments. Celeste explained via Instagram video that her ring girl career has empowered her in other aspects of her life and Palmer took a more humorous approach by NOT apologizing for making Khabib uncomfortable. [Peep both screenshots] Khabib has yet to respond and it’s for the better as he’ll only further insert his foot in his mouth.
Reminder to Khabib – Come down off your moral high horse. You punch dudes in the face for a living. ANDDDDD another thing…who died and made Khabib king? Who are you to judge?
