Ultimate offers Justin Gaethje to Ferguson as Khabib's replacement at UFC 249

J. Gaethje (right) could replace K. Nurmagomedov in the UFC 249. Photo: Montage SL/MMA Press

After the news that the lightweight champion (up to 70,3kg.) would be prevented from traveling after the closure of borders in Russia due to the coronavirus, the UFC 249, scheduled for April 18, got a big issue. With the possible absence of one of the card's protagonists, Ultimate needs to race against time to find an opponent to Tony Ferguson and they seem to already have a favorite name: Justin gaethje. The information was released by 'ESPN' reporter, Ariel Hewani.

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"According to sources, the UFC is aware of (Khabib) Nurmagomedov's status and has now begun looking into alternative plans for the main fight and the April 18 card, which they are still determined to pull off. As a result, it was offered Tony Ferguson a fight against Justin gaethje. However, this fight was neither agreed nor finalized. (The company does not yet) have a location for the event,” wrote Ariel.

The information that the champion would be unable to participate in the show came like a shower of cold water to the Ultimate board, who remained optimistic about holding the event, even in times of social isolation.

Tony Ferguson he even provoked the Russian on his social networks, saying that the champion was hiding and stating that the athlete had not commented on a location to hold the contest.

If Gaethje and the 'Bicho Papão' accept the challenge, it is not yet known whether the confrontation would be for the interim title of the division, as, initially, Khabib's linear belt would be at stake.

Currently, Justin is in fourth place in the lightweight division. The fighter is in a great phase and could be a good challenge for Ferguson, number one in the group.

As a result, Tony Ferguson, per sources, has been offered a fight against top contender Justin gaethje, however, that fight has not been agreed upon nor finalized. Neither has a location for the event.

- Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) March 30, 2020