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Khabib Nurmagomedov Renders Justin Gaethje Unconscious, Retires After UFC 254 Headliner

Khabib Nurmagomedov stands alone.

In his first appearance since the death of his father, the American Kickboxing Academy ace choked Justin Gaethje unconscious with a second-round triangle to retain his undisputed Ultimate Fighting Championship lightweight title in the UFC 254 headliner on Saturday at the Flash Forum in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Gaethje (22-3, 5-3 UFC) went limp 1:34 into Round 2, as he was submitted for the first time in his 25-fight career.

Afterward, Nurmagomedov (29-0, 13-0 UFC) announced his retirement.

“The Eagle” pushed Gaethje beyond his bounds with relentless pressure and maniacal forward movement.