The MMA world was rocked this afternoon at 3:25 PM +07 on Friday, August 1, 2025, as news broke that Khabib Nurmagomedov has agreed to a highly anticipated rematch with Conor McGregor, accompanied by a strikingly unexpected condition that has left fans and analysts in awe. The UFC president, Dana White, has officially confirmed this stunning development, thrusting the sport back into a frenzy and reigniting one of its most iconic rivalries.
Nurmagomedov, the undefeated former UFC lightweight champion with a perfect 29-0 record, shocked the community when he retired in October 2020 after submitting Justin Gaethje. His departure was seen as the end of an era, with the Dagestani fighter citing family and faith as his priorities. Meanwhile, McGregor, the brash Irish superstar, has been sidelined by injuries since his last fight in 2021, fueling speculation about his return. The announcement of a rematch has sent shockwaves, but it’s the unexpected condition attached to Nurmagomedov’s agreement that has everyone talking.
White revealed during a press conference that Nurmagomedov’s return hinges on a unique stipulation: the fight must take place in his hometown of Makhachkala, Dagestan, with proceeds from the event donated to a local charity supporting underprivileged youth. This bold demand, blending personal pride with philanthropy, has left the MMA world speechless, blending admiration with intrigue. “Khabib wants to give back to his roots, and this fight will be historic,” White stated, confirming that negotiations have been underway for weeks to make this vision a reality.
The rivalry between Nurmagomedov and McGregor dates back to their explosive encounter at UFC 229 in October 2018, where Nurmagomedov submitted McGregor in the fourth round, sparking a post-fight brawl that cemented their feud. Since then, both have traded barbs, with McGregor recently hinting at a comeback on social media. The rematch, tentatively set for UFC 321, promises to be a blockbuster, with White teasing a date announcement within days. Fans on X are already buzzing, with posts like “Khabib vs. McGregor 2 in Dagestan? Insane!” and “This charity twist is next level” dominating the conversation.
Nurmagomedov’s condition adds a layer of complexity. At 36, his grappling prowess remains legendary, but the move to fight in Dagestan could favor his home crowd advantage, a factor McGregor, now 37, might struggle to counter given his recent inactivity. McGregor’s camp has yet to respond, but his history of bold challenges suggests he’ll accept, especially with the financial and prestige incentives. The charity aspect has also drawn praise, with some speculating it could inspire future UFC events to follow suit.
The MMA community is divided yet electrified. Analysts note that Nurmagomedov’s return could shake up the lightweight division, where Islam Makhachev currently reigns, while McGregor’s participation might signal a career resurgence. Fans are split between those celebrating the nostalgia and others questioning the fighters’ readiness. White, however, is confident, promising “the biggest fight card of the year” and hinting at additional surprises.
As the news spreads, the UFC is working to secure logistics for Dagestan, a region not typically hosting major MMA events, which adds to the spectacle. Nurmagomedov’s silence since the announcement keeps the mystery alive, while McGregor’s next move will be pivotal. The combination of a rematch, a unique condition, and White’s confirmation has turned this into a global talking point, with the MMA world eagerly awaiting the official date and the unfolding drama. This unexpected twist has not only revived a legendary feud but also set a new standard for what a fight can achieve beyond the cage.
