Khabib Nurmagomedov Ranks 9th in McGregor’s Top‑10 UFC Fighters List
Khabib Nurmagomedov landed at #9 on Conor McGregor’s freshly unveiled top‑10 UFC fighters list on 11 July 2026, a ranking that reignited conversation about the unbeaten Dagestan star’s place among MMA’s elite.
McGregor, gearing up for his bout with Max Holloway at UFC 329, shared a ten‑fighter lineup that mixes current champions with retired icons. The list spots Alexander Volkanovski at #10, then elevates Khabib to #9, followed by legends like Jon Jones and Anderson Silva. McGregor’s own placement sits at #1, a bold self‑assessment that mirrors his confidence heading into the Las Vegas showdown.
Khabib’s 29‑0‑0 record, featuring eight knockouts and eleven submissions, still looms large despite his retirement in 2020 after his father’s passing. The Eagle’s victories over McGregor, Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje are highlighted as proof of his dominance. Ranking him just below Volkanovski suggests McGregor values recent activity, yet still acknowledges Khabib’s unbeaten run as a benchmark for greatness.
Even out of the Octagon, Khabib’s coaching of Islam Makhachev keeps his tactical imprint alive. Makhachev’s rise through the lightweight division echoes his mentor’s grappling‑centric style, reinforcing the notion that Khabib’s legacy extends beyond personal wins. The placement on McGregor’s list keeps the conversation alive, reminding fans that Khabib’s impact still shapes title pictures.
While Khabib remains retired, his role as a mentor and commentator grows. The UFC’s promotional material frequently cites his unbeaten streak when building narratives around upcoming lightweight bouts. As Makhachev eyes the belt, Khabib’s strategic input could dictate fight‑game plans, ensuring his name stays relevant in future rankings and title discussions.
Fans dissect the list on social media, debating whether Khabib deserves a higher spot given his flawless record. Some argue that his early retirement skews the comparison, while others point to his decisive victories as evidence of a top‑tier career. The debate fuels engagement ahead of UFC 329, where McGregor’s own performance will be measured against the standards he set for his peers.