One of the top featherweights in UFC history to never hoist a title, Zabit Magomedsharipov, is inching closer to a fighting comeback.
During Max Holloway’s UFC featherweight title reign, many top contenders were in the mix for dream clashes with the reigning champion. This includes the UFC’s undefeated Zabit Magomedsharipov, who was on the verge of a potential title shot with wins over Calvin Kattar, Jeremy Stephens, and Sheymon Moraes.
Coined by many as the ‘Featherweight Khabib Nurmagomedov’, Magomedsharipov dominated throughout his 19-fight professional MMA career. After a loss in 2013 at ProFC 47, Magomedsharipov didn’t lose a single fight afterwards until his abrupt retirement in 2021.
A canceled fight with Yair Rodriguez in August 2020 led Magomedsharipov to retire from active competition due to health issues affecting his immune system. Before he was removed from the UFC rankings, Magomedsharipov made it as high as #3 in the featherweight division.
But Magomedsharipov has teased an MMA comeback in recent months, years removed from his 2021 leave. Now, Magomedsharipov is taking a big step towards potentially making it happen.
Zabit Magomedsharipov signs with Russian promotion for first appearance since 2019
In a recent Instagram post, Magomedsharipov shared footage of himself grappling, hinting at his plans.
“Not again, but again, ACB BJJ,” Magomedsharipov wrote.
ACB BJJ then seemingly confirmed Magomedsharipov’s comeback in a recent post on their Instagram, ‘welcoming’ the former UFC star to their roster. Magomedsharipov’s promotional debut is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks.
Magomedsharipov made his UFC debut in September 2017, finishing Mike Santiago by second-round submission. He retired on a 14-fight winning streak before hanging up the gloves.
Whoever Magomedsharipov opposes in his ACB BJJ debut, his rival is in for a rude awakening on the mats. His performance could go a long way in determining a potential return to the cage at age 34.
Will Zabit Magomedsharipov fight in the UFC ever again? Let us know in the comments!