UFC President is pessimistic about 'Khabib x Ferguson' happening in 2020

K. Nurmagomedov (left) and T Ferguson (right) in the first look of 2020. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufc

Five attempts and no success. This is the sad story that involves the realization of the long-awaited fight between Khabib Nurmagomedov e Tony Ferguson. As they are two of the biggest lightweights (up to 70,3kg) in the recent history of MMA, UFC president, Dana White, does not believe that the clash between the competitors will happen in 2020, after a new cancellation that took place in April.

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“Not at all (confident). I'm afraid of what might happen if we try to schedule that fight again,” said White in a conversation with fans on 'Reddit AMA'.

At the beginning of this year, Ultimate excited fans by confirming the confrontation between the Russian and the North American as the main fight of the UFC 249. The meeting would take place on April 18, in New York (USA), and the commitment would earn him the position of linear champion of the category.

The setting was perfect. Both Khabib and Ferguson had a long history of winning streaks and the promotion couldn't be more profitable. The coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, however, forced the fight to be removed from the initial space and, after the worsening of the global health crisis, Nurmagomedov chose to officially leave the show as he was unable to travel internationally due to the closure of Russia's borders as a preventive measure.

The confrontation was then canceled for the fifth time and, once again, frustrated the plans of those who would like to see the athletes exchange forces in the octagon.

Now, Tony will compete for the interim category title against Justin gaethje. The two will face each other on a card that will be held on May 9, in Florida.

While watching the company create a new belt for its division, Khabib continues to recommend that people take care of themselves and respect the pandemic. The Russian, however, stated that he would be available to return to the Octagon around August or September, after fulfilling his religious commitment during Ramadan (a month-long period in which Muslims practice fasting), and if the global health situation is under control. .