Khabib Nurmagomedov stands as one of the most beloved MMA fighters in history. Born in Dagestan, Russia, he carved an undefeated legacy in the UFC, retiring with a perfect record of 29 wins and zero losses. His career soared when he captured the UFC lightweight championship, culminating in his retirement in 2020. Over the years, his wealth expanded significantly, fueled by fight earnings, lucrative brand endorsements, and savvy business ventures.
Building Early Wealth: Khabib's UFC Rise from 2016 to 2018
In 2016, Khabib had already gained popularity among MMA fans, but his financial foundation was still developing. Most of his income during this period stemmed from UFC fight purses and modest sponsorship agreements. Fans admired his dominant wrestling skills and composed demeanor inside the octagon.
A pivotal moment arrived in 2018 when Khabib defeated Al Iaquinta to claim the UFC lightweight title. This victory transformed him into a global superstar, boosting his fight pay substantially. He began receiving larger bonuses, and major brands started seeking partnerships with him. From this point onward, his earnings entered a new, elevated tier.
Peak Earnings and Undefeated Years: 2019 to 2020
The years 2019 and 2020 marked Khabib's highest financial gains in the UFC. His bout against Conor McGregor became one of the most-watched events in UFC history, drawing millions of viewers worldwide. This fight delivered his biggest paycheck to date.
Subsequent victories over top contenders like Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje further amplified his wealth and fame. By the time he announced his retirement in 2020, Khabib had accumulated tens of millions of dollars. He exited the sport as a reigning champion and one of the highest-earning fighters ever in the UFC.
Post-UFC Business Ventures: 2021 to 2025
Retirement did not slow down Khabib's income streams. He remained highly active, transitioning into roles such as a coach for fighters like Islam Makhachev. He also launched his own MMA promotion, the Eagle Fighting Championship, generating revenue from event management, coaching fees, public appearances, and ongoing brand collaborations.
Additionally, Khabib invested in gyms and various sports-related projects. By 2025, reliable estimates placed his net worth at approximately $40 million, showcasing his ability to leverage his fighting success into sustainable business growth.
Current Status and Net Worth in 2026
As of early 2026, Khabib is no longer competing in fights, but he continues to earn steadily. His MMA promotion, coaching responsibilities, and endorsement deals provide consistent income. He frequently appears at major fight events to support his team and promote his ventures.
Today, his net worth remains in the tens of millions, reflecting a successful transition from athletic stardom to entrepreneurial achievement. Khabib's journey demonstrates that his success extended far beyond the cage, as he converted his fame into lasting wealth through strategic decisions and relentless effort.
