Masvidal and Poirier offer to step in as Khabib’s replacement at UFC 249

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Jorge Masvidal and Dustin Poirier have offered to step in and fight Tony Ferguson at UFC 249.

The UFC 249 main event between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson is in serious jeopardy after Nurmagomedov revealed earlier today that he is currently stuck in Russia and unable to fly out of the country due to the government’s imposed travel ban over coronavirus.

The UFC is reportedly looking to book Justin Gaethje as Khabib’s replacement, but Jorge Masvidal and Dustin Poirier are willing to step up to the plate should Gaethje reject the UFC’s offer.

Poirier, who hasn’t fought since his submission loss to Nurmagomedov at UFC 242, posted the following Tweet.

“I’ll fight,” Poirier tweeted.

UFC ‘BMF’ champ Masvidal hasn’t fought at lightweight in over four years but the No. 3-ranked welterweight is willing to make an exception for UFC 249.

“April 18 I’m free #theresurrection,” he posted.

UFC 249 was originally expected to take place in Brooklyn, New York but the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC) has refused to sanction the event amid growing concerns over the spread of COVID-19.

Ferguson, who is currently without an opponent, has accused Nurmagomedov of trying to duck him.