Conor McGregor was one of the earliest predictors that the UFC 249 title fight between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson wouldn’t happen. But he probably never could have predicted these conditions.
Even dating back prior to his January win over Donald Cerrone, former UFC featherweight and lightweight champ McGregor (22-4 MMA, 10-2 UFC) said he thought the fifth booking between Nurmagomedov (28-0 MMA, 12-0 UFC) and Ferguson wouldn’t happen. That prediction became reality Wednesday when Nurmagomedov officially withdrew due to the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on his ability to travel and prepare.
Nurmagomedov has been the recipient of much criticism since. Ferguson accused the lightweight champion of “running away” and said he should be stripped of his belt, and others have questioned his decision to not remain Stateside in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak. Nurmagomedov’s U.S. training home is at American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose, Calif.
McGregor, who has been one of the biggest advocates for safety and awareness during the coronavirus outbreak, weighed in with his opinion Thursday. He offered congratulations to Ferguson for winning by default while simultaneously ripping Nurmagomedov, but ruled out the possibility of fighting on 16 days’ notice, even though his fighting instincts have him desiring to do so (via Twitter):
I am in shape to fight right now!
At the beginning of all this, I said to myself – I’m happy I don’t have an official fight booked. If I did, I would have consumed all the incorrect data to support me taking part in the bout, and I would have followed through, competed. And won.
The fact of this matter is, both Tony and Khabib where engaged in a game of chicken here towards the fight bell. With Khabib chickening out first. Making it 3-2 in pullouts in Tony’s favour. Khabib scurried out of the U.S to home, and amid the crisis. Very high risk.
Congrats Tony.
With McGregor seemingly not an option to compete at UFC 249 on April 18, the UFC still remains in disarray in trying to secure a main event fight and venue for the card.
Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier have circulated as names of interest to fight Ferguson, who still appears willing to compete despite the hectic circumstances.
Conor McGregor rips Khabib Nurmagomedov for 'chickening out' against Tony Ferguson at UFC 249
