Since retiring from a flawless career in the UFC, Khabib Nurmagomedov has repeatedly spoken about his love for football.
The Russian called time on his combat career after defeating Justin Gaethje back in October at UFC 254, meaning he’s had a lot more spare time to hone his footballing skills.
Preparing for my football debut ⚽️
— khabib nurmagomedov (@TeamKhabib) January 24, 2021
I’m free agent, and ready to accept offers.
Готовлюсь к дебюту на большом футболе, жду предложения, будем рассматривать. https://t.co/V2NlBX5iqD
The 32-year-old has reiterated his dream to play at a professional level in an interview with Match TV, revealing that he had spoken with Cristiano Ronaldo about his desire.
“To play football on a professional level is a childhood dream. Of course, I have such a wish. Football is the king of sports after all.
“Who haven’t I discussed this with! I’ve spoken even with the UEFA president Aleskandr Ceferin, with the owner of PSG, yes and even with Cristiano Ronaldo.”
He also went on to talk about Ronaldo’s former club, Real Madrid, touting them as his ‘dream club’.
“Spartak of course are great, but that’s domestic level. My dream club is Real Madrid.
“In fact the first match I remember watching the full 90 minutes, was Real vs Juventus in 1998 [Champions League final].
“I remember Mijatovic scored from an offside position, but we still won.”
One offer on the table?
FC Kamaz, who ply their trade in the third tier of Russian football, recently tried to capitalise on Khabib’s new direction. The club went as far as inviting the UFC icon to a training camp.
Taking to Instagram, the club offered up a number of reasons why the UFC icon should consider joining their promotion push, inviting him to take part in a three-week training camp in Novorossiysk. (via RT)
In an effort to increase any likelihood of the move happening, the league responded by offering their assistance, sharing an image of validation for Nurmagomedov to play.
“We have prepared for you a certificate for [Khabib],” they replied. “If everything goes well, you just have to insert the date of issue.”
UFC return looking unlikely
Nurmagomedov had hinted that he could be tempted by a return to the octagon, though it would take something special from the division to entice him back.
Unfortunately for the promotion, that’s sounding less and less likely to materialise.
Speaking after the McGregor vs Poirier fight, Dana White said he’d spoken to Khabib and wasn’t confident on any return happening.
“He said to me, ‘Dana, be honest with yourself. I’m so many levels above these guys,’” White revealed.
“I don’t know. [Nurmagomedov returning] doesn’t sound very positive.”
Could we be seeing a new career direction for the UFC great?
Featured image credit: Getty