Conor McGregor has wished Khabib Nurmagomedov a happy retirement - while taking credit for his rival's success.
Nurmagomedov announced he was hanging up his gloves last October but only confirmed his decision last night.
His newly-vacated lightweight title will be on the line on May 15 when Michael Chandler takes on Charles Oliveira.
And McGregor, who was choked out by Nurmagomedov in 2018, send the Dagestani a message.
He said: "Happy retirement kid, smell ya later. Never forget who came in the game and made ye. Straight from my big Irish balls.
"Remember folks, if you hate cutting weight so much, all you have to do is move up a division. God bless."
Nurmagomedov, whose last fight in October saw him submit Justin Gaethje to retain his title, met with UFC president Dana White this week.
And he said: "It was a good dinner with some great people. Dana White, thank you so much brother and the entire UFC team for the opportunity to prove myself, you guys have changed many lives forever because of this sport.
"Dana - I’ll never forget your attitude towards me, my father did not forget and my sons will remember you. Today there was a real conversation between real men.
"Also thank you to all team, sparing partners and all fans. I hope you will accept my decision and understand me."
White added, "29-0 it is. He is officially retired", along with the '100' emoji.
The UFC president added: "It was incredible to watch you work; thank you for EVERYTHING and enjoy whatever is next my friend."
McGregor is currently negotiating with the UFC over a trilogy fight with Dustin Poirier.
The Irishman was stopped by his rival in their rematch in January as Poirier levelled their series following his defeat in 2014.
Poirier would have been expected to be first in line for a shot at the vacant title but has instead opted for the more lucrative fight with McGregor.
The winner of their third instalment would likely face the winner of May's title fight.
