While Nurmagomedov reiterated numerous times at a virtual pre-fight news conference Thursday hes not neglecting Gaethje (22-2 MMA, 5-2 UFC), the UFC light-weight champion discussed his long-lasting strategies when asked.
Nurmagomedov (28-0 MMA, 12-0 UFC) will make his return on Oct. 24, handling Justin Gaethje in the pay-per-view headliner at Flash Forum on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
Given that defeating Al Iaquinta to fill the vacant championship at UFC 223 in April 2018, Nurmagomedov has successfully protected his title two times. In October 2018 at UFC 229, Nurmagomedov sent competing Conor McGregor in Round 4.
Khabib Nurmagomedov isnt sure what will inspire him to fight beyond UFC 254, but anticipates there will be options.
” Its a very good concern, honestly– a great concern,” Nurmagomedov said when inquired about future inspiring aspects. “I do not know. I dont understand. You know, for instance, Im going to finish Justin Gaethje inside the cage Oct. 24 however what else? This is a very excellent concern. Well see. You know, I like competition. I love taking on the very best fighters in the world. Thats why Im here. Im not in the UFC to generate income. I have a lot of organization tasks outside the UFC. I can generate income. Its an excellent question– great question.”
UFC 254 happens Saturday, Oct. 24 at Flash Forum on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. The primary card streams on ESPN+ pay-per-view after prelims on ESPN/ESPN+.
Official UFC 254 poster launched including Khabib vs. Gaethje title unifierKhabib Nurmagomedov states UFC will work out Georges St-Pierre fight after UFC 254Daniel Cormier was taken a little aback by Khabib Nurmagomedov returning at UFC 254Nurmagomedov, 32, has made his long-lasting objectives understood in the past. He intends on retiring while hes on top. That stated, Nurmagomedov doesnt believe UFC 254 will be his final getaway– particularly when UFC president Dana White has hinted to him that significant things are on the horizon for him.
” I do not think (Ill retire),” Chandler stated. Were going to think about this after this fight. Dana informed me, after this fight, he has something unique for me.
Nurmagomedov was arranged to combat Tony Ferguson at UFC 249 in April but was required to withdraw after the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak caused travel concerns. The event was held off to May and Gaethje stepped in to defeat Ferguson by fifth-round TKO.
Pictures: Khabib Nurmagomedov through the years
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Official UFC 254 poster launched featuring Khabib vs. Gaethje title unifierKhabib Nurmagomedov states UFC will negotiate Georges St-Pierre fight after UFC 254Daniel Cormier was taken a little aback by Khabib Nurmagomedov returning at UFC 254Nurmagomedov, 32, has made his long-term intents understood in the past. That said, Nurmagomedov does not believe UFC 254 will be his last trip– especially when UFC president Dana White has hinted to him that major things are on the horizon for him.
Since beating Al Iaquinta to fill the vacant champion at UFC 223 in April 2018, Nurmagomedov has successfully safeguarded his title twice. In October 2018 at UFC 229, Nurmagomedov sent rival Conor McGregor in Round 4. At UFC 242 in September 2019, Nurmagomedov chose up another submission victory.
