Heartwarming footage shows Khabib Nurmagomedov picking Dustin Poirier up off the floor following loss to his protégé

Khabib Nurmagomedov showed his class in the immediate aftermath of the UFC 302 main event.

‘The Eagle’ ended his retirement from MMA coaching to help his protégé, Islam Makhachev, prepare to face Dustin Poirier at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey on Saturday night.

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Makhachev was pushed to the brink but sensationally choked Poirier unconscious in round five to retain his lightweight title, which used to be owned by Nurmagomedov.

Conor McGregor’s nemesis and several other people stormed the cage to congratulate Makhachev, but Khabib quickly turned his attention to Poirier.

Doctors surrounded ‘The Diamond’ as he regained his senses. Footage shows him telling them he’s ready to get up before Nurmagomedov steps in and helps him to his feet.

The pair shook hands before sharing some kind words and a hug in the cage.

Nurmagomedov wasn’t so friendly the last time they met in an Octagon.

Poirier landed one big punch and threatened with a guillotine choke, but he was dominated by the 29-0 Russian, who submitted him in round three when they clashed at UFC 242 in September 2019.

After speaking with Nurmagomedov, Poirier got some mic time with Joe Rogan, and he addressed his future as a fighter after losing a third UFC title bout.

The 35-year-old suggested that he is ready to retire from MMA after his latest loss.

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Poirier said: “I’m not 100 per cent, but if this is my last fight I want to dedicate this journey to the people who made me the man I am, and that’s the women in my life.”

“My grandmother, I miss you every day and I’m still protected by your prayers. My mother, we’ve had a crazy life. I love you. Thanks for always having my back.

“To my wife, I love you so much. I wouldn’t be standing here without you. Babe, I don’t know if I’d be breathing if it wasn’t for you.

“Parker, [Poirier’s daughter] daddy is fine. I love you so much. I’m so proud of you. We alright, baby. Always chase your dreams, it’s a beautiful thing.”