Bloody Elbow · May 14, 2018
Video: Why some UFC fighters choose not to compete during Ramadan
On May 15, 2018, the holy month of Ramadan will commence. While this religious practice does not hold much significance for those outside the Islamic faith, many mixed martial arts fans are familiar with the holy month because of its impact on the sport and the limitations it places on Muslim fighters during training camps.
A notable example of a fighter who does not compete during the holy month is UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagmoedov. The Dagestani native abstains from all forms of violent competition during Ramadan in order to prioritize mandatory religious duties such as fasting (abstaining from food and drink from dawn to dusk), and participate in a spiritual cleanse.