Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Justin Gaethje may happen sooner than expected.
It was confirmed at UFC 249 that the new UFC Interim Lightweight Champion would be fighting Nurmagomedov for the official belt sometime in the fall; however, with Khabib stating that he would be ready to go in the summer and Dana White’s “Fight Island” expected to be done in mid-June – according to the UFC President himself -, the Lightweight title match-up could be set shortly after:
“I expect (Nurmagomedov vs. Gaethje) to happen this summer,” White said, via ESPN. “I don’t know if it will be the first one, but it will be on ‘Fight Island,’ unless miraculously the world comes back together faster than I think it’s gonna.”
The news of Nurmagomedov defending his belt against Justin Gaethje in the summer sounds great; however, the reigning 155-pound champ may have suffered a personal setback as Khabib’s father and coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, was flown to the hospital with news reports stating that he’s in a medically induced coma.
Dana White released a statement shortly after finding out about the tragic news:
“Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov is a true martial artist who lives a life of pride, honor and respect. He instilled those same values in his son, world champion Khabib, at an early age and was always in his corner throughout his career. I know how close Khabib is with his father and I’m saddened to hear about his current state. My thoughts are with Abdulmanap and the Nurmagomedov family as he continues to fight.”
Best wishes to Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov on a speedy recovery and we’ll keep you updated on the situation should more news come from it.