UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov and CBS presenter Kate Abdo have been commended for their professionalism during an awkward encounter at the Champions League Final.
On June 1, the Champions League Final took place at the Allianz Arena in Munich, featuring a matchup between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan.
Paris Saint-Germain emerged victorious with a commanding 5-0 win.
However, an incident on social media sparked controversy when UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov appeared to decline a handshake from CBS Sports presenter Kate Abdo, despite having shaken hands with others just moments before.
Abdo later offered an apology, clarifying the cultural context behind Nurmagomedov’s actions.
During the event, Abdo worked alongside notable figures such as Thierry Henry, Jamie Carragher, and Micah Richards.
Nurmagomedov, the longest-reigning UFC Lightweight Champion from April 2018 to March 2021, was present as a special guest. While he greeted others with handshakes, when it came to Abdo, he placed his hand on his chest instead of shaking hers.
Abdo quickly withdrew her hand and apologized, proceeding to welcome Nurmagomedov on the show.
The incident led to social media buzz, with some questioning the reasons behind Nurmagomedov’s refusal and Abdo’s response.
The explanation lies in Nurmagomedov’s adherence to Sunni Islam, which prohibits physical contact between unrelated men and women.
The pair’s handling of the situation was praised online.
One Twitter user commented: “Mad respect to Kate for understanding afterwards and issuing an apology.”
A Redditor remarked: “They both handled that very well and quickly.”
Another noted: “It is out of respect. Notice how he holds his hand to his heart; this is a greeting in itself.”
Finally, a comment summarized: “This was the most respectful exchange.”
This incident is reminiscent of Nurmagomedov’s decision in 2020 not to train directly with former UFC fighter Cynthia Calvillo, demonstrating techniques without physical contact due to similar religious principles.