UFC Releases Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Close Friend In Latest Roster Cuts
Saygid Izagakhmaev is among nine fighters released by the UFC as the promotion makes room for new talent.
The UFC has made another round of roster changes, releasing nine fighters as the promotion continues to create space for incoming talent.
Among the latest departures is Saygid Izagakhmaev, a longtime friend and training partner of former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. The list of fighters released also includes Lyman Good, Bruno Lopes, Bekzat Almakhan, Cody Gibson, Aoriqileng, Ravena Oliveira, Stewart Nicoll and Hailey Cowan.
Izagakhmaev joined the UFC last year with an impressive 22-2 professional record. He had also gone 3-0 in ONE Championship, which led to considerable expectations around his move to the UFC and his links to Khabib’s highly regarded Dagestani training camp.
However, his UFC run did not go as planned. Izagakhmaev suffered defeats against Nicolas Dalby and Abubakar Vagaev and was unable to record a win during his time with the promotion.
Khabib had spoken highly of Izagakhmaev before his UFC stint. In a 2022 interview with ONE Championship, Khabib said he had trained with Saygid for a long time and praised his dedication and development.
“He’s going to be the best, not only in our team, but in the world. I have a lot of faith in him,” Khabib said at the time.
Despite his short UFC run, Izagakhmaev could have opportunities to rebuild his career outside the promotion. Fighters released by the UFC can continue competing in other organisations and potentially work their way back into consideration for a return.
Izagakhmaev is not the only fighter from Khabib’s circle to leave the UFC. Zubaira Tukhugov, another longtime teammate, was released after his split-decision defeat to Elves Brener at UFC 284 in 2023. Meanwhile, Conor McGregor teammate Kiefer Crosbie was released in 2025 following a three-fight losing streak.
Dana White’s Contender Series Continues To Produce New Talent
As established fighters depart, the UFC continues to look for the next generation of talent through Dana White’s Contender Series.
The promotion has already signed 28 fighters during Season 10 this year, with emerging names such as Alex Apodaca and Nick Galanti among the newcomers.
For fighters leaving the UFC, a return generally depends on what they accomplish outside the promotion. Strong performances in other organisations can provide an opportunity to catch the UFC’s attention again.
For Izagakhmaev, the next stage of his career will be about rebuilding after a difficult UFC run and showing that he can still compete at the highest level.
News Source : Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
