Khabib Nurmagomedov and fans show support for top-ranked flyweight after he requests release from the UFC

Khabib Nurmagomedov and fans have rallied around UFC flyweight Askar Askarov after the fighter announced that he's asked for his release from the promotion.

At the time of the announcement, Askarov was the No.4-ranked flyweight and most recently fought Kai Kara-France back in March. The Russian fighter came up short, suffering the first loss of his MMA career. The 30-year-old has since been scheduled to return to the octagon twice, against Alex Perez and Brandon Royval, but was forced to withdraw from both fights.

In a post on Instagram, Askarov confirmed that he's planning to take time away from the sport to rest up. 'Bullet's' statement suggests he has been plagued with injuries for some time:

"Assalamualaikum, due to my return being delayed due to medical reasons and being my last fight under my contract, I asked UFC to release me. To which, I received a positive response. First, let's put our health in order, and then we will see what and how."

Former UFC lightweight champion and compatriot Khabib Nurmagomedov responded to the post with a touching message of support:

"You are the best brother"

Khabib Nurmagomedov's message to Askarov

One fan added that they were surprised by the news due to Askarov's ranking but understood that he needed time away to heal:

"One step away from the belt, you complete your brother! So there are good reasons, may Allah give you health and quick resolution of all your problems!"

Check out more messages of support below:

UFC welterweight Belal Muhammad describes being coached by Khabib Nurmagomedov

Khabib Nurmagomedov continues to be a mainstay in MMA after hanging up his gloves and taking up coaching. 'The Eagle' has carried over his fine form as a fighter in the octagon. Most recently, Belal Muhammad and Islam Makhachev picked up huge wins under his tutelage.

UFC 280 proved to be a big night for the Russian's legacy, and Belal Muhammad was full of praise for the coach after his own dominant performance. 'Remember the Name' TKO'd then-undefeated Sean Brady, his first finish in over three years.

As per Muhammad, it's no surprise that he found his first finish since 2019 while working under Nurmagomedov. He told ESPN MMA:

"One of the best things that I noticed from it was seeing what he demands out of you. He demands greatness from you. You watch all the shows of 'Dream Team' and how Kobe Bryant would go to the gym at 4 AM and it makes the other guys work that much harder. Khabib is the same way. You want to do extra for him, you want to push yourself that much harder for him."

Catch Belal Muhammad discussing Khabib Nurmagomedov here: