It appears the UFC is still considering three separate opponents for the UFC lightweight champ for UFC 242 in Abu Dhabi.
While Khabib Nurmagomedov is expected to defend his lightweight title at the UFC 242 event in Abu Dhabi later this year, it remains unclear who the undefeated fighter will face in his long-awaited return to the Octagon.
According to Nurmagomedov’s father, Abdulmanap, there are still three potential opponents in contention for the lightweight champ’s next title defence.
“There are three opponents in development,” said Abdulmanap. “There is Ferguson, a rematch with Conor and Dustin Poirier. Khabib is preparing for any of them.”
Though the UFC 242 main event has not been officially announced, Nurmagomedov recently began his training camp for the upcoming title defence. The lightweight champion has not competed since a successful title defence against Conor McGregor at UFC 229. He was later suspended for his role in the post-fight brawl and is eligible to compete again in July.
During Nurmagomedov’s absence, Dustin Poirier became the interim lightweight champion following an impressive win against featherweight champ Max Holloway at UFC 236. The win catapulted Poirier to the no. 1 contender spot. And while MccGregor is still reportedly a possible opponent for Nurmagomedov at UFC 242, Abdulmanap would prefer to see his son compete against Poirier.
“For me it would be logical to fight against Dustin Poirier.”
UFC 242 is scheduled to take place on Sep. 7 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.