Khabib Nurmagomedov has been out of the action for some time now. The fighter was initially set to take on Tony Ferguson for the interim lightweight title at UFC 209, but suffered weight management issues that forced “The Eagle” to rush to the hospital. As a result, the fight faced a last minute cancellation. Ferguson went on to earn the interim title at UFC 216, while Nurmagomedov has been recovering.
Now back in fighting condition, “The Eagle” recently appeared on The MMA Hour to break down his hopes for the future. In the interview, the fighter explained that he is hopeful for an octagon return on Dec. 30 at UFC 219. That being said, the top division contender is hoping to see another fight before his own.
Nurmagomedov went on to explain that he wishes to see reigning UFC lightweight champion Conor McGregor return to the octagon for a trilogy rematch against Nate Diaz. While “The Eagle” is looking to face off against Tony Ferguson, he would like to see Diaz and McGregor throw down first.
As transcribed by MMA Fighting, here is what Khabib Nurmagomedov had to say:
“We have almost 12 weeks, 11 weeks before UFC 219. And now is the beginning a very interesting moment in my life. I hope UFC gives me a championship fight. End of the year, I want to take everything back. Attention, belts; I want to take everything. End of the year, I want to fix everything. And we’ll see what happens. But first of all, I think UFC has to make the fight, Conor versus Nate Diaz 3, and after, me and Tony.
“Because, my opinion, I think Tony Ferguson is the real champion. That’s why. I don’t think, if I fight versus Tony Ferguson, this is an interim belt. Officially, yes. But people want to see me versus Tony Ferguson. I think this is a much better fight, for everything. If I beat Tony Ferguson and take the interim championship belt — Conor’s the official champion, but he’s not the people’s champion.”
