Brian Kelleher vs. Umar Nurmagomedov added to UFC 272 in March

A key bantamweight matchup with a pair of fighters looking to break into the 135-pound rankings us set for UFC 272.

MMA Junkie today confirmed with two people with knowledge of the booking that Brian Kelleher and Umar Nurmgomedov have verbally agreed to meet at the March 5 event, which takes place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Those people requested anonymity because the UFC has yet to make an official announcement.

ESPN.com first reported the booking.

Kelleher (24-12 MMA, 8-5 UFC) returns to the bantamweight division following a brief step up to 145 pounds to take on a late-replacement opponent in Kevin Croom. Kelleher earned a decision victory in the matchup and now owns a two-fight winning streak.

Meanwhile, Nurmagomedov (13-0 MMA, 1-0 UFC) looks to fight under the UFC banner for the second time. The undefeated 25-year-old debuted for the promotion in January 2021, scoring an impressive submission win over Sergey Morozov.

With the addition to the card, the latest UFC 272 lineup incldues:

• Colby Covington vs. Jorge Masvidal
• Marina Rodriguez vs. Yan Xiaonan
• Edson Barboza vs. Bryce Mitchell
• Greg Hardy vs. Serghei Spivac
• Erick Gonzalez vs. Devonte Smith
• Mariya Agapova vs. Maryna Moroz
• Jamie Mullarkey vs. Jalin Turner
• Nicolae Negumereanu vs. Ihor Potieria
• Kevin Holland vs. Alex Oliveira
• Jessica Eye vs. Manon Fiorot
• Tim Elliott vs. Tagir Ulanbekov
• Dustin Jacoby vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk
• Brian Kelleher vs. Umar Nurmagomedov