Khabib Nurmagomedov Expresses Disapproval of Women Competing in MMA

UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov has publicly stated his disapproval of women participating in mixed martial arts (MMA). Known for his forthright opinions, Nurmagomedov declared that he does not enjoy witnessing female fighters suffer blows to the face during bouts or training sessions.

During a recent interview, when a female reporter asked for his thoughts on the growth of women's MMA, Nurmagomedov posed a counter-question:

“How do you feel about getting hit in the face?”

The former lightweight champion acknowledged that his viewpoint might draw criticism. He then proceeded to elaborate on his rationale, emphasizing the importance of appearance:

“The most precious thing on our body is our face, right? Every day, we all look in the mirror and want to look good. Men may look once, but if women have a mirror with them, they look 1000 times a day.”

Khabib Nurmagomedov's Further Comments on Women in MMA

In the same interview, Khabib Nurmagomedov further explained his reasons for not wishing to see women inside the octagon. While recognizing that some women choose this path, he personally would never advocate for it.

“There are women who chose this sport. It’s their choice. They chose it. If you ask me, I wouldn’t choose this sport for women. It’s brutal for men, first of all. For women, I don’t even consider it…. For me, it’s still something wild when a woman gets hit in the face.”

Nurmagomedov concluded by stressing the significance of traditional gender roles in society, though he conceded that learning self-defense is beneficial. "The Eagle" maintained that divine creation designed women to be "weaker" and men "stronger," and he personally prefers a societal structure where "a man does men’s work, and a woman does women’s work."

“Every person in life has a mission. For a man, it’s to raise children, take care of the family, and take care of loved ones. 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.”

This is not the first time Khabib Nurmagomedov has sparked debate with his opinions on women's involvement in combat sports. He previously generated controversy by referring to MMA ring girls as "most useless."