Dana White: Khabib Nurmagomedov to Make UFC Return in September or October

Before the coronavirus pandemic took hold across the globe, it was Khabib Nurmagomedov who was supposed to be the featured attraction at UFC 249.

But after with the reigning lightweight champion stranded at home in Russia due to travel restrictions, the UFC 249 main event will now see Tony Ferguson square off against Justin Gaethje for the interim 155-pound belt in Jacksonville, Florida, on May 9.

“The Ferguson vs. Gaethje fight is one of the most violent fights you will see,” UFC President Dana White told ESPN on Instagram Live (transcription via MMAjunkie.com). “I can guarantee that. This fight is going to be incredible. The winner will fight Khabib for the title. This is for the interim. 100 percent [the winner fights Nurmagomedov].”

Although the UFC is in the process of putting together a schedule with fights every week, Nurmagomedov recently began observing Ramadan, which usually keeps him out of action for the summer months each year.

“Khabib will be back in September or October,” White said.

Nurmagomedov last appeared at UFC 242 in September 2019, when he submitted Dustin Poirier in the third round of the card’s main even in Abu Dhabi. “The Eagle” is undefeated in 28 professional bouts — including 12 within the Las Vegas-based promotion.