Russian UFC sensation Shara Magomedov has finally spoken out following the first setback of his professional MMA career. The highly anticipated bout at UFC Saudi Arabia saw the 30-year-old suffer a tough defeat at the hands of English MMA icon Michael ‘Venom’ Page. Magomedov had entered the Octagon on Saturday with an impeccable 15-0-0 record, aiming to extend his dominance.
His appearance at the event was further hyped by the presence of football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who backed the Russian fighter. However, fate had other plans, as Page outmaneuvered Magomedov, securing victory via unanimous decision. Now, following his disappointing loss, Magomedov has opened up about the challenges he faced leading up to the fight.
Shara Magomedov addresses his loss and underlying struggles
In a recent Instagram post, Shara Magomedov acknowledged his defeat but assured his fans that he is far from done. The one-eyed fighter, known for his resilience, hinted at a serious health issue that affected his training camp leading up to the fight. Despite the setbacks, he made it clear that he never considered backing out of the contest.
"The pirate sails into the harbor, but I will return!" Magomedov boldly declared, emphasizing his determination to bounce back stronger.
Elaborating on the circumstances, he further revealed:
"I knew all the risks when stepping in with such a nightmarish health condition and preparation. I felt that despite everything, I could still win—but it didn’t work out, and that’s it."
His statement suggests that the injury or illness he dealt with during his fight camp played a significant role in his performance. While he didn’t disclose specific details about his condition, it’s evident that he was far from his best inside the Octagon.
A fighter’s spirit: Magomedov promises a comeback
Even in defeat, Magomedov's warrior mindset remains intact. He expressed his gratitude towards the UFC and his supporters, assuring them that this loss is just a minor setback in his career.
"Thank you to the UFC organization for this opportunity and to everyone involved. I wanted to put on a show and meet expectations without canceling the fight. Thank you to everyone who stands by me in any situation! Alhamdulillah."
His statement reflects a fighter’s unyielding resolve, as he remains focused on overcoming adversity and making a strong return to the cage. With his aggressive striking style and fearless attitude, Shara Magomedov is expected to regroup and come back even stronger in his next fight.
While Michael Page emerged victorious this time, the Russian powerhouse has made it clear—he isn’t going anywhere. Fans will now eagerly await his next move, as he sets his sights on redemption.