Not GSP or Anderson Silva, Khabib Nurmagomedov reveals his all-time UFC greats

Khabib Nurmagomedov shares his candid take on the greatest UFC fighters of all time—but surprisingly leaves himself off the list. Here's what he said and why fans are applauding his honesty.

Profile

SportsTak Desk

UPDATED:

Not GSP or Anderson Silva, Khabib Nurmagomedov reveals his all-time UFC greats

Khabib Nurmagomedov in the frame (Image via Getty)

Story Highlights:

Khabib Nurmagomedov refuses to name himself in the GOAT conversation, citing objectivity over modesty.

The former UFC champion names two legends who he believes truly define greatness in MMA history.

Khabib Nurmagomedov may be considered one of the greatest fighters in UFC history, but when asked to name the ultimate MMA legends, the undefeated lightweight champion chose to shine the spotlight elsewhere.

Despite finishing his career with a flawless 29-0 record and dominating names like Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje, Khabib humbly refused to place himself at the top of the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) list. Instead, the Dagestani icon offered a refreshing and respectful take on who truly belongs in MMA’s Mount Rushmore.

Khabib Nurmagomedov picks Fedor Emelianenko and Jon Jones as MMA's greatest

During a conversation on Adam Zubayraev’s podcast, Khabib responded candidly when asked to name the greatest MMA fighter of all time.

"I'd say two guys, if that's allowed," said Khabib. "Fedor [Emelianenko] and [Jon] Jones."

While fans might expect him to at least consider himself for the title, especially with his dominance in the UFC's lightweight division, Khabib Nurmagomedov explained his decision with clarity and humility.

“Calling yourself the greatest of all-time? No, I'm not being modest. Can I speak objectively? Then I'm not putting myself there and I never have.”

Why Fedor Emelianenko and Jon Jones made the cut

Fedor Emelianenko is a legend whose career peaked during his time with PRIDE in Japan. Known as “The Last Emperor,” the Russian powerhouse defeated a who’s who of MMA’s heavyweight elite, including Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, Mark Coleman, and Mirko Cro Cop. While he never stepped into the UFC Octagon, his dominance in PRIDE, Strikeforce, and Bellator cemented his status as an all-time great.

Jon "Bones" Jones, on the other hand, is a two-weight UFC champion with a reign that included victories over top-tier opponents like Daniel Cormier, Lyoto Machida, and Alexander Gustafsson. He claimed titles in both the light-heavyweight and heavyweight divisions, most recently defeating Ciryl Gane to become the UFC heavyweight champion.

Though currently inactive after declining to fight rising contender Tom Aspinall, Jones has hinted at a return, particularly for a potential fight at the UFC’s proposed White House event.

Khabib’s humility adds to his legacy

Khabib Nurmagomedov ’s decision not to list himself among the greatest reflects the deep-rooted humility and respect that have always defined his career. While fans and analysts may continue to include him in GOAT debates, The Eagle prefers to let his record speak for itself—while giving credit where he believes it’s due.

    Share