Khabib Nurmagomedov welcomed by 10,000 fans on return to Russia after beating Conor McGregor — but faces fine and suspension after Las Vegas brawl
KHABIB NURMAGOMEDOV arrived home in Russia to a hero's welcome — but might not be smiling if he is hit with a fine and a fight ban.
The 30-year-old touched down in Makhachkala and was whisked to Anzhi Arena football stadium, where he addressed 10,000 waiting fans.
Referring to his nickname, he triumphantly declared to the crowd: "You can't confine an eagle to a cage."
The UFC lightweight champ headed back to his home country after the Nevada State Athletic Commission said it had opened a probe into his and Conor McGregor's behaviour in their post-fight brawl.
Both McGregor and Nurmagomedov could face a six-month suspension and a fine if they are stung by the NSAC.
Fans donned Khabib's signature papakha hat as he showed off his belt in front of a three-quarters full stadium, while some invaded the pitch to be close to their hero.
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Nurmagomedov told the crowd: "I prayed to God for one thing, to be left alone in the cage with this clown. I asked him this every day.
"I prayed that we would have no injuries, that we would make weight, and regain our strength, and finally be locked in that cage.
"Because a lot was said outside that cage, and I said that once that octagon door is shut, I am not responsible for my actions.
"And with what happened afterwards, some people say I did the wrong thing, others that I did the right thing."
Meanwhile, UFC supremo Dana White believes Nurmagomedov should be fined £190,000 and face a suspension of four to six months — but should keep his UFC lightweight title.
White said: "He absolutely keeps his title.
"He’s going to get suspended, so maybe you give him a four to six month suspension.
"He’ll [Khabib] will sit out, take some time off and that’s it."
