UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov has stirred online discussion after respectfully refusing a handshake from a female anchor during CBS’s Champions League final coverage. The incident, rooted in his Islamic beliefs, has drawn praise for his calm and dignified handling of the moment.
While joining the post-match panel featuring big names like Thierry Henry and Jamie Carragher, Khabib greeted everyone warmly with handshakes—except when host Kate Scott extended hers. He politely declined, prompting a quick on-air apology from Scott who kept the moment light and professional.
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Viewers, especially from the Muslim community, praised Khabib’s unwavering commitment to his faith. As a devout Sunni Muslim, he avoids physical contact with women outside his family—a practice he has consistently followed, including during his UFC career.
Though some critics viewed the moment through a Western lens, others admired Khabib’s quiet discipline and the respect he showed without confrontation. The clip has since gone viral, with many calling him a role model for staying true to his values in the global spotlight.
Khabib Nurmagomedov is a devout Muslim and a true ambassador of Islam. We admire you for upholding Islamic values, including your respectful stance on avoiding handshakes with women. Much respect, but I wish you were a Barca fan, brother! pic.twitter.com/QwseIv5mdg
— Extraordinary Ustaz 👳🏾♂️📿 (@bapphah) June 1, 2025