Supporting Palestine has cost me money: Khabib Nurmagomedov

Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has said that his public support for Palestine has resulted in financial losses, including missed sponsorship opportunities and the loss of professional contacts.

The 37-year-old made the remarks while discussing the situation in Gaza at an event organised by the Miftaah Institute in New Jersey on Saturday, August 8.

Nurmagomedov said people should not remain silent about the suffering in Gaza, even if speaking out could affect their professional relationships or financial opportunities. He acknowledged that he too had faced such consequences, including losing money because of his stance, Siasat Daily reported.

However, the former UFC champion said financial losses were insignificant when compared with the lives lost and suffering endured by Palestinians.

He also urged those unable to provide direct assistance to Palestinians to contribute in other ways, including by sharing information about Gaza with their followers. Athletes, celebrities and other public figures with large audiences, he said, had a responsibility to use their platforms to raise awareness.

Nurmagomedov also highlighted the plight of Palestinian families who have lost several members and called on people to at least speak publicly about the situation.

The former fighter has repeatedly expressed support for Palestinians. In 2025, he spoke about his hope that Palestinians would eventually have their own state, including an airport in Gaza.

During a Miftaah Institute event in Michigan in November 2025, Nurmagomedov also spoke about plans to establish a Khabib Gym in Palestine and bring coaches there to train local athletes.

In January 2025, following an Usman Nurmagomedov fight in Dubai, he praised Ireland for its support for the Palestinian cause.

Nurmagomedov retired from professional mixed martial arts in 2020 with an undefeated record of 29 wins and no losses.