Khabib Nurmagomedov will make his return to the octagon on Oct. 24, UFC president Dana White has declared.
White confirmed to CNN that Nurmagomedov, the Russian lightweight champion, will return to action versus interim champ Justin Gaethje as he bids to go on his undefeated vocation next a tragic time in his particular lifetime.
Nurmagomedov’s father and coach, Abdulmanap, died from concerns linked to COVID-19 earlier this month. But White told CNN that Nurmagomedov will be completely ready to return in Oct.
“It’s been extremely tough on him,” White explained. “His father was a hero to him. He beloved his father. They experienced a really, incredibly close connection, and it was quite challenging on him.”
Nurmagomedov (28- MMA, 12- UFC) initially was scheduled to deal with Tony Ferguson in April, but the COVID-19 pandemic intended their fifth combat booking went by the wayside.
Gaethje (22-2 MMA, 5-2 UFC)) stepped in and stopped Ferguson in the fifth spherical on May perhaps 9 at UFC 249 to assert the interim title and ebook himself a potential shot at Nurmagomedov. News of the dying of the champion’s father set any designs for a summer season matchup on maintain.
On the other hand, according to White, that bout will nonetheless take place, with the day now established for Oct. 24. at a venue to be verified.
“It’s heading to take place, I inform you appropriate listed here, appropriate now,” White said. “That fight’s heading to occur: Khabib vs. Gaethje, October 24.”
White formerly has hinted at Nurmagomedov vs. Gaethje having area on “Fight Island,” however that stays up in the air.
