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The MMA community is shocked by Damir Ismagulov’s sudden retirement.
The UFC lightweight division has always been one of the premier weight classes. As the current superstars get closer to retirement, the next generation of 155-pound fighters is starting to emerge, which includes the likes of Rafael Fiziev, Mateusz Gamrot, Arman Tsarukyan, and current champion Islam Makhachev. Ismagulov was considered to be one of the new-age Russian fighters. However, he recently took to Instagram to post a retirement message:
“Unfortunately, due to circumstances and health problems, I am forced to end my sports career. Thanks to all those who were with me regardless of the outcome in the battles, who were sincerely sick and worried. It was an interesting journey, a moment to remember. Gave everyone a hug ня”
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Before losing to Tsarukyan last time out, Damir Ismagulov started his UFC tenure with a 5-0 record. MMA fans were disappointed and surprised to hear that ‘Qazaq’ is retiring due to medical issues, with some commenting on Instagram saying:
“Shame good fighter allways brought it went something like 17 -0 in mma till his last fight .loved watching him hope speedy recovery..🙌”
“Sucks to read. He would have been a great lightweight contender. Hope he can keep his health up”
“f***ing sucks he was such a interesting prospect it’s always health over everything tho, respect”
“This guy is so talented , tough to see his career come to an end”
“Ah d**n. Hope he's well overall. Hispresencein the octagon will be sorely missed.”
How far could Damir Ismagulov have gone in the UFC?
Damir Ismagulov joined the UFC in 2018 after dominating the M-1 Challenge lightweight division. The 31-year-old had high expectations and validated his hype by beating Joel Alvarez, Thiago Moises, and Rafael Alves. Ismagulov then made a statement by taking out Guram Kutateladze with a split decision.
Although ‘Qazaq’ lost to Arman Tsarukyan, there were still positives to take away from the fight. Unfortunately, he won’t be able to continue evolving as a fighter. If Ismagulov didn’t have to retire, there’s a solid chance that he would have fought for the UFC lightweight title at some point. His chances of winning would depend on who was champion when he challenged for it, but the 31-year-old had the skills to potentially beat almost anyone at 155 pounds.
