In this handout image provided by UFC, (L-R) Khabib Nurmagomedov of Russia celebrates his victory over Justin Gaethje in their lightweight title bout during the UFC 254 event
In this handout image provided by UFC, (L-R) Khabib Nurmagomedov of Russia celebrates his victory over Justin Gaethje in their lightweight title bout during the UFC 254 event

Khabib Nurmagomedov is firm on his decision to stay away from the Octagon.

Regardless, there are people like ex-UFC middleweight champion Murilo Bustamante hoping he would reconsider.

Nurmagomedov repeatedly said “no” when asked if he would come out of retirement to fight again during an impromptu interview by TMZ.

The Russian appeared to be in no mood to discuss his mixed martial arts career, responding as short as possible.

The 32-year-old also stressed that he prefers to help develop athletes than fighting himself.

Aside from that, Nurmagomedov was also asked about his thoughts on Conor McGregor.

“The Eagle” responded to a question on whether the Irishman could return. He responded by saying “I don’t know.”

Lastly, the man also asked Nurmagomedov if McGregor crossed the line with his tweet that was seemingly referring to his late father. All the Russian had to say was “I think so.”

Hence, it appears that all Nurmagomedov fans can do right now is hope for the best. "The Eagle" is sticking to the promise he made to his mother of not fighting again.

That decision came after his successful title defense at UFC 254 last year where he won over Justin Gaethje.

Bustamante appeared on the Sports for All PH podcast hosted by Vincent Juico and Brian Yalung and talked about Nurmagomedov's retirement.

“I wish he can come back. He should come back. I love to watch his fights. He is very good at everything he does. His striking game, he improved a lot in his striking game, amazing takedowns. His ground game is very good,” Bustamante stated.

“The most important for a fighter to become a champion is to be unpredictable. Nurmagomedov was very unpredictable. So that’s important. That is why I like to watch his fights."

Khabib Nurmagomedov and Justin Gaethje

Photo: Getty Images | Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC