Khabib Nurmagomedov is predicting a surprise winner at this year’s FIFA World Cup.
The former UFC lightweight champion made his name in the octagon, but football has always been a big part of his life. Nurmagomedov even considered going pro in football before choosing to focus on fighting.
Even though he became known for what he accomplished inside the cage, that’s not the only sport Khabib has a passion for. And with the tournament taking place across North America, he recently shared who he thinks could pull off a shock win.
Back in 2021, Dana White made it clear he’s not a fan of football, but millions across the globe will be watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and most have their eyes on a familiar group of contenders.
The discussion around potential winners usually revolves around half a dozen teams. Some are backing Argentina to defend their title, while others think Brazil are ready to reclaim their place at the top. There’s also talk about England finally ending their long wait since 1966, though it’s hard to ignore just how strong France looks this year.
Spain and Portugal complete the list of usual suspects expected to be in the mix. But Khabib Nurmagomedov is looking elsewhere. The retired fighter is putting his money on Germany, who are just outside that top group, to make a statement.
Why Khabib Nurmagomedov is picking Germany over the World Cup favourites
“Who will win the World Cup? Germany,” he said during an interview with okko.sport. “I am not rooting for them, but I think Germany is the number one favourite.”
He also put forward two other sides he thinks could challenge: “I would put the Netherlands in second and Spain in third.”
Khabib’s choice isn’t without reason. After all, they opened Group E with a convincing 7-1 win over Curacao. That leaves matches against the Ivory Coast and Ecuador still to come in what looks like a manageable group stage for them.
The former champion has more than just football on his plate these days, too. With Islam Makhachev set to defend his welterweight belt against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 on August 15th in Philadelphia, there’ll be plenty of work for Khabib back inside training camps as well as following events outside them.
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