Khabib explains retirement: 'What else is there to do?'

Khabib Nurmagomedov believes he walked away from mixed martial arts at the right time.

"I did enough in the sport to be considered the best," Nurmagomedov told reporters Tuesday, according to RT Sport. "Today, I was ranked as the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, so the mission is accomplished. What else is there to do? Make money? I'll always be able to do that."

Nurmagomedov (29-0) announced his retirement last weekend following a lightweight title defense against Justin Gaethje at UFC 254.

In his postfight interview, "The Eagle" said he didn't want to continue in the sport without his father, who died in July. He also promised his mother he would retire after UFC 254.

So far, the 32-year-old doesn't regret stepping away in his prime.

"Of course (UFC president) Dana (White) wants me to continue fighting and generate revenue," Nurmagomedov said. "I can make money myself. I'm at the peak of my career and can fight for very large purses.

"But I made this decision, and I think this is the best time. Not everyone can retire at their peak, but I know that in (one, two, or five years), I'd have to face that decision again."