Khabib Nurmagomedov suggests return in July and says: 'I'm going to crush everyone'

K. Nurmagomedov could return to the octagon in July. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @khabib_nurmagomedov

Since choosing not to participate in the UFC 249, which would initially take place on April 18, the linear lightweight champion (up to 70,3kg.), Khabib Nurmagomedov became the target of much criticism in the MMA world. Under the justification that he would not be able to leave his country due to the closure of Russian borders (due to the coronavirus pandemic), the athlete now states that he can return to action in July, after fulfilling his religious commitment to Ramadan (from April 23rd to May 23rd).

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“I can fight anytime. Ramadan ends on May 23rd. In July, I will be ready. Stop talking about me. It's corona (virus) time, when Khabib's time comes, I'll crush them all”, wrote the Russian in response to a fan on 'Instagram'.

While he doesn't make his return to the Octagon official, Khabib will watch his rival Tony Ferguson deal Justin gaethje this Saturday (9) in a fight valid for the interim belt of the category. The 'Eagle' has not performed since defeating Dustin poirier, in September last year, in a confrontation that represented the unification of the category belt.

At 31 years old, the Russian is considered one of the best athletes in recent MMA history. In 28 appearances as a professional in the sport, the fighter never suffered a defeat.