Lightweight is known by many as the most competitive division in the UFC. Unfortunately, this star-packed division has lost one of its biggest future prospects in Damir Ismagulov. After the fight against Arman Tsarukyan, Damir was extremely disappointed and left the cage without even shaking his opponent’s hands. Now he has announced his retirement.

Why did Damir Ismagulov leave?

On Sunday, Damir took to Instagram to make a special announcement. Fans, fighters, and industry personnel were all left shocked when he said,

“Unfortunately, due to circumstances and health problems, I am forced to end my sports career. Thanks to all those who were with me regardless of the outcome of the battles, who were sincerely sick and worried. It was an interesting journey, a moment to remember. (Give) everyone a hug.”

The Kazakh fighter previously had also cited health issues following his loss to Arman Tsarukyan saying,

“Regarding the fight, you all saw that I was not myself. Unfortunately, the disease did not allow me to recover normally, to perform normally. Perhaps it was necessary to withdraw from the fight, it was hard, but the nature of the fighter did not allow it. But no excuses – I came out, fought to the end, I was ready to win, but, unfortunately, it didn’t work out, and the fight was lost.”

Seems like whatever the disease was, bothered the lightweight to such an extent that he decided to call it quits. However, the illness might be far from the only reason behind the high-ranked lightweight’s departure. 

What other factors might be at play?

A story similar to Ismagulov was seen with UFC featherweight Zabit Magomedsharipov. The Dagestani was shaping up to be a future title contender after putting on dominant performances against fighters like Calvin Kattar. But after surgery, Zabit decided to retire also citing health issues.

After some time, rumors began spreading that Zabit has been struggling to find opponents for a long while which led to him getting upset and leaving. Damir also was suffering from similar issues. After debuting in 2018, the Kazakh defeated veteran fighters like Thiago Moises and Guram Kutateladze within his first few fights.

His last opponent, Arman, is considered one of the next potential lightweight champions. UFC should really address this issue of fighters turning down bouts left and right otherwise, we might have to see similar cases happening again and again.