Sources: 
MMA legend
Khabib Nurmagomedov sparked a wave of mixed reactions on social media after refusing to shake hands with presenter
Kate Scott during a TV segment at the 2025 Champions League final held at Allianz Arena.
The incident occurred as Khabib, a devout Sunni Muslim from Dagestan, attended the match where Luis Enrique’s team secured a treble. He explained that his refusal was based on his religious beliefs, which prohibit physical contact with unrelated members of the opposite sex.
"
In Islam it is forbidden for a believer to touch a member of the opposite sex that they are not related to," Khabib stated, clarifying his actions. The 43-year-old presenter, Kate Scott, responded graciously by offering an apology on air, acknowledging the cultural and religious context.
Social media responses were divided; some fans supported Khabib’s stance, emphasizing respect for his faith, while others debated the appropriateness of the gesture in a public setting.
Khabib, often regarded as the second most famous Sunni Muslim athlete globally after Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, has consistently upheld his religious principles throughout his career.
This incident highlights the intersection of sports, culture, and religion, sparking conversations about respect and understanding in diverse public arenas.
"Nurmagomedov's handshake refusal led to a mixed reaction on social media, with some fans insisting that he had not meant to offend Scott," reflecting the nuanced public discourse.
The event took place during a high-profile football final, underscoring how personal beliefs can influence interactions even in widely viewed international sports events.
Sources: MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov refused to shake presenter Kate Scott's hand during a Champions League final TV segment, citing his Sunni Muslim faith forbidding contact with unrelated women. The gesture sparked mixed social media reactions, with some fans defending his intentions and Scott offering on-air apologies.
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