November 15, 2026 Independent · Authoritative · Nigerian
Fridayposts

Independent insight on Politics, Governance, Leadership, Economy and Development for Nigerians everywhere.

Get The Friday Brief
Latest
Lifestyle

“I have such a wish” – UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov reveals telling Cristiano Ronaldo his desire to play professional football

“I have such a wish” – UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov reveals telling Cristiano Ronaldo his desire to play professional football
FridayPosts editorial image · “I have such a wish” – UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov reveals telling Cristiano Ronaldo his desire to play professional football
UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov has revealed discussing with Cristiano Ronaldo his desire to play professional football. The Russian also revealed that Real Madrid are his dream club. Khabib Nurmagomedov, who fought in the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s lightweight division, is among the greatest fighters in the history of mixed martial art. The Russian retired in October 2020, with 29 wins and no defeats. His love for football and Real Madrid helped him build a friendship with Cristiano Ronaldo during the Portuguese’s time at the Santiago Bernabeu. The pair have remained friends since. Khabib Nurmagomedov had always nurtured a love for football. Since his retirement, he has been spending time on the football pitch with his friends. During an interaction with Match TV, the Russian revealed he always dreamt of playing professional football. Khabib Nurmagomedoc went on to claim that he had spoken to quite a few people about his wish, including close friend Cristiano Ronaldo.
“To play football on a professional level is a childhood dream. Of course, I have such a wish. Football is the king of sports after all. Who haven't I discussed this with! I've spoken even with the UEFA president Aleksandr Ceferin, with the owner of PSG, yes, and even with Cristiano Ronaldo,” said Khabib Nurmagomedov.
“Spartak of course are great, but that's domestic level. My dream club is Real Madrid. In fact, the first match I remember watching the full 90 minutes was Real vs Juventus in 1998 (Champions League final). I remember Mijatovic scored from an offside position, but we still won".

Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure has not caused a dent in Khabib Nurmagomedov’s love for Real Madrid

Khabib Nurmagomedov
Khabib Nurmagomedov
Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from Real Madrid has clearly not caused a dent in Khabib Nurmagomedov's love for the La Liga giants. Perhaps, that in a nutshell is the charm of the beautiful game. The Russian also spoke about his admiration for football last year.
“For me, football is the number one sport. When I was a child, I dreamed of being a football player and I have always watched football” said Khabib Nurmagomedov.
[Sportskeeda]
Was this worth your time?
About the author

Fridayposts News

FridayPosts publishes independent reporting, expert interpretation and practical ideas for decision-makers in Nigeria, Africa and beyond.

Reader conversation

0 approved comments

Your email address is used for moderation and is not displayed publicly. Comments are reviewed before publication.

No approved comments yet. Add the first thoughtful response.

More on this story

More Lifestyle →

Latest from FridayPosts

See latest →

What readers are choosing

Current momentum

Make FridayPosts part of your information advantage.

Get independent reporting, expert interpretation and practical ideas for Nigeria and Nigerians everywhere.

Get The Friday Brief