It was one of the most anticipated fights on the upcoming UFC schedule.
However, an injury to Tony Ferguson has scuppered what could have been one of the fights of the year against Khabib Nurmagomedov.
The two were scheduled to headline the UFC On Fox card in ten days' time.
According to Ferguson, he has fluid in his lungs and is unable to fight on doctor's recommendation.
Usually I can Power thru small Bumps & Bruises. Doc Said I have Fluid/Blood in my Lung #UFCTampa I Will Heal Up. I Will be Back.#TeamElCucuy
— Tony Ferguson (@TonyFergusonXT) April 5, 2016
It extends further Nurmagomedov's time out of the octagon.
His last fight was two years ago when he defeated current lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos.
Pettis, Cowboy, RDA or somebody, anyone and any weight. 16 April I'm waiting for you guys. @danawhite @lorenzofertitta #InshaAllahVictory
— khabib nurmagomedov (@TeamKhabib) April 6, 2016
On Twitter, seeing that Nurmagomedov was without an opponent, RDA suggested that the Dagestani fighter get himself ready for UFC 200 in July suggesting that the two have unfinished business.
Sorry to hear Ferguson is out. @TeamKhabib We have some unfinished business, I'll be ready in July @danawhite @lorenzofertitta #Jesusfirst
— Rafael dos Anjos (@RdosAnjosMMA) April 6, 2016
You could view this as a disingenuous offer from the Brazilian.
Nurmagomedov is Muslim and this year Ramadan falls between June 6th and July 5th. UFC 200 is on July 9th. The undefeated Nurmagomedov has already turned down a fight at UFC 200 due to his religious commitments. Ramadan requires fasting during daylight hours, not ideal preparation for an MMA fight.
His faith is something which was highlighted recently over a disagreement with EA Sports. In their UFC game, he was portrayed as being Christian.
Nurmagomedov's religion and his unwillingness to fight during Ramadan is surely something of which dos Anjos, himself highly religious, was aware.
The offer makes him look good and is something which he can cite should he ever be accused of rejecting fights.
@RdosAnjosMMA I believe it was clear to everyone last time. Or "Fake champ" title still torturing you? pic.twitter.com/Xex1N5evba
— khabib nurmagomedov (@TeamKhabib) April 6, 2016
