Khabib Nurmagomedov will not be defending his Ultimate Fighting Championship lightweight title later this month.
While the promotion is determined to put on the highly-anticipated UFC 249 on April 18, the undefeated king of 155-pound division has confirmed his non-participation in the fight card as his home country, Russia, locked down its borders to prevent the spread of the deadly coronavirus.
This will be the fifth time since 2015 the lightweight matchup has been cancelled.
“Staying home in quarantine and reading the reaction of people to the situation around my fight, it turns out that the whole world should be in quarantine, governments of all countries, famous people around the world urge people to follow all safety requirements in order to limit the spread of the disease, to save people, and Khabib is the only one relieved of all obligations and must demonstrate free will and train flying around the world, for the sake of fight?” Nurmagomedov said in a recent Instagram post.
Definitely Upset
Continuing, ‘The Eagle’ said he is ‘definitely upset’ about his situation but he said it is something he cannot control, that’s why he asks for the understanding of MMA fans.
“I understand everything and I’m definitely upset more than you to cancel the fight, probably like all others, I had many plans after the fight, but I can’t control it all.”
“The greatest countries and the largest companies of our time are shocked by what is happening, every day the situation changes unpredictably. But Khabib still has to fight, is that what you saying? Take care of yourself and put yourself in my shoes.”
Khabib’s statement on his status for UFC 249 came after the Federal Air Transport Agency in Russia said there is a possibility the lightweight champion could travel to the US.
”For Khabib to be allowed to fly to the US on a private jet, the flight company whose services he intends to use, should obtain a permit for flying out of Russia and for arrival in the USA,” the Agency claimed (per RT Sport).
Not Against
On Monday, Khabib revealed the UFC is now looking for a replacement to fight Ferguson at the UFC 249 main event as the pay-per-per view event is set to proceed even without him.
“Currently I am in Dagestan and I am training and preparing every day. Although I don’t know what am I preparing for.”
“Because after we came to Russia we also learned that the borders are going to be locked. Same like in the States, same like in Europe, Emirates, everywhere. The whole world is in quarantine right now.”
”So now I am hearing that they are looking to organize it with or without me. OK, go ahead.”
“Everyone should follow the laws. I am not against it, I know that fighters need to feed their families and pay their bills. I know how hard it is for the fighter. Unless they fight they aren’t getting any money.”
(Featured Image Source: Instagram/ Fight Library and Khabib Nurmagomedov)