Khabib Nurmagomedov has come under heavy criticism following comments about women in MMA.
The former UFC lightweight champion made the remarks during an appearance at a real estate event powered by Sun Hills Development.
Advertisement
Nurmagomedov, often considered among the greatest fighters in the sport, shared views that quickly sparked debate online.
His stance reflects beliefs shaped by his cultural and religious background, which many Muslims also share.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s comments on women in MMA spark controversy
Speaking at the event, Nurmagomedov outlined his perspective on gender roles, while addressing why he is not a women’s MMA enthusiast.
“Every person in life has a mission. For a man, it’s to raise children, take care of the family, take care of loved ones,” he began by saying, according to Full Mount MMA.
“There are very few women who take on big responsibilities. It’s very hard for them. It’s not without reason. God created it this way: a woman is weaker, a man is stronger. People want to change and mix all of this. I don’t know how you feel about it, but I like when a man does men’s work, and a woman does women’s work.”
Advertisement
The comments quickly circulated across social media platforms and reignited long-standing debates around women’s participation in combat sports.
Fans react strongly to Khabib’s stance
Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
The reaction from fans was immediate and divisive. However, those who disagreed with ‘The Eagle’ did not hold back.
One MMA fan wrote on X: “If he actually said this it is extremely sexist. Women juggle a lot of different roles in their life from being the ones who on average take more time around the house, with the kids and then separately at work and many are in positions with responsibilities after those already big ones I bet his mother is weeping.”
Advertisement
“Huge L. There are women in mma that are literally more accomplished than him. Double champs, fight new contenders, don’t retire early,” another added.
A third person posted: “It’s a typical case of religious dogmatic believe system. Yes, women are weaker in terms of muscular strength as compared to men but that doesn’t mean they will just be used a breeding machine. But what’s the problem, if they are participating in a competitive sport?”
“He’s a really good wrestler. He’s not a smart man,” said a fourth X user, while another stated: “It’s not his place to dictate to others what they can and cannot do. That’s the individual’s decision.”
Read more:
