Khabib Nurmagomedov’s father and long term MMA coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, believes that his son will retire from MMA competition within the next few years.

In a recent interview with Russian tabloid Life.ru, Abdulmanap expressed his desire for Khabib to retire before the age of thirty. He explained that his main concern is the physical and mental health of his son, and also added that Khabib would be invaluable in mentoring and training the next generation of Russian MMA fighters after he retires.

“I dont want to upset any fans but Khabib is 28 years old and by 30 he has to finish his career, I’ve never voiced this opinion before, didn’t talk about it to anyone. But I’m afraid he’s got left 1.5 years.” (Translated by Egemen Birben via Bloody Elbow) “I want him as a healthy, thinking person. I want him to develop other fighters. In such a big sport, a career between 24-30 years old is enough.”

Khabib is currently scheduled to face Tony Ferguson for the interim UFC lightweight title in the co-main event of this weekend’s UFC 209. Should the Dagestan native be victorious against ‘El Cucuy’, he will look to unify the lightweight belts in a blockbuster matchup against current 155- pound champion Conor McGregor.

‘The Eagle’ currently holds a perfect professional record of 24-0, and since overcoming a string of injuries, he has shown no signs of slowing down.

Do you think the end of Khabib’s MMA career is drawing near? Or will he continue to fight late into his thirties? Give us your opinion in the comment section.