Zabit Magomedsharipov hasn’t spoken publicly about fighting for nearly two years. Until today.
Recently Magomedsharipov (18-1 MMA, 6-0 UFC) officially inform the UFC of his decision to retire.
Thursday, Magomedsharipov released a statement on Instagram that shed light on the months leading up to his final decision, and why he ultimately decided to step away from professional mixed martial arts competition.
Magomedsharipov, 31, labeled health issues and canceled fights as the two main factors that pushed him in the direction of his final decision.
He hasn’t competed since a November 2019 victory over Calvin Kattar in Moscow. The Dagestan fighter was scheduled to face Yair Rodriguez in August 2020, but was not rebooked after Rodriguez withdrew due to injury.
Known for his flashy fighting style and wildly awkward and athletic maneuvers, Magomedsharipov earned four post-fight performance bonuses in six UFC appearances.
His victories in the UFC came against Mike Santiago, Sheymon Moraes, Kyle Bochniak, Brandon Davis, Jeremy Stephens and Kattar.