Khabib Nurmagomedov, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?

According to a credible source, undefeated UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the athlete's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.

UPDATE 22/03/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Why not Nurmagomedov for Person of the Year?

The list of nominees for Time magazine’s Person of the Year is always an eclectic mix of world leaders, pop culture icons, buzzworthy names, and human rights activists. The unexpected inclusion of the 37-year-old athlete, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.

“What makes Nurmagomedov so important is the potential and influence he now has, rather than anything he has already done,” said a panelist who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that earlier this month, the athlete have already been named ‘Russian Of The Year’ by some major Russian newspapers and even ‘Sildi Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Sildi (Khabib Nurmagomedov's hometown).

Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year

A representative for the athlete was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:

“#NurmagomedovPOY. Logical choice though I wouldn't have made the same one.”
— @TomMiller, 21 Mar 2026

“Congrats! Khabib has this charisma that seems to come out of nowhere.”
— @SamanthaJones, 21 Mar 2026

“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Khabib Nurmagomedov?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 21 Mar 2026

Could 2026 officially be the Year of Khabib Nurmagomedov?

Still, TIME’s editors will make the final decision about who will grace the magazine’s cover as its 2026 Person of the Year.

Who do you think should be TIME’s Person of the Year for 2026?

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