Zabit Magomedsharipov’s long-awaited return to competition postponed

Zabit Magomedsharipov's long-awaited return to competition has been derailed by injury. The legendary featherweight was scheduled to compete in a grappling match against Raul Rosas Jr. (12-1) at ACBJJ 21 on July 5 in Moscow, Russia, marking his first bout since 2019. However, Zabit was forced to withdraw, and his younger brother Khasan Magomedsharipov, an undefeated PFL featherweight (11-0), stepped in on short notice as a replacement. Khasan made the quick turnaround just one week after securing a first-round submission victory at PFL San Diego. Zabit (18-1) remains one of the sport's most talented fighters, though he never captured a major title despite his 6-0 record in the UFC. His last competitive fight came in 2019 against Calvin Kattar, after which he unexpectedly retired in 2020. His departure from active competition was attributed to difficulty securing bouts, persistent health concerns, and a desire to pursue a career in medicine.