UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has promised an update on his future “soon”, with Abu Dhabi a potential location for his return to the octagon.
The Dagestan native, unbeaten in 28 professional mixed martial arts bouts, has not fought since last September, when he defeated Dustin Poirier in the UAE capital at UFC 242 on Yas Island.
Nurmagomedov was scheduled to take on long-term rival Tony Ferguson at UFC 249 in April, but after the fight was pushed back one month because of the coronavirus crisis, he became stranded in Russia amid the country’s travel restrictions and could not compete.
Justin Gaethje went on to face Ferguson in his absence, and produced a hugely dominant display to win via a fifth-round TKO. Having claimed the interim belt, Gaethje is now set to face Nurmagomedov in a lightweight unification bout, touted for September or October.
Last week, UFC president Dana White confirmed Abu Dhabi was the "frontrunner" to host the clash. The emirate, chosen to stage next month's historic Fight Island, signed a five-year agreement with the world's lead mixed martial arts promotion last year.
On Tuesday, Nurmagomedov offered the greatest hint thus far that is comeback is not too far away.
Taking to social media, he posted a picture alongside featherweight Zubaira Tukhugov, and cousin and welterweight Abubakar Nurmagomedov, and said: "These two have been grinding all summer and will return at the beginning of autumn [September], we wish them luck. About my own future, I will make an announcement soon."
Nurmagomedov, 31, has remained in Russia since April. His father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, was hospitalised last month and underwent heart surgery in Moscow because of complications from a previous illness and having contracted Covid-19. His condition has reportedly improved but is understood to remain serious.
Next month's Fight Island kicks off on Yas Island on July 11 with the pay-per-view UFC 251, then continues with events on July 15, 18 and 25. The first of the four cards features three world title fights, headlined by welterweight champion Kamaru Usman against Gilbert Burns.
if you go
The flights
Flydubai flies to Podgorica or nearby Tivat via Sarajevo from Dh2,155 return including taxes. Turkish Airlines flies from Abu Dhabi and Dubai to Podgorica via Istanbul; alternatively, fly with Flydubai from Dubai to Belgrade and take a short flight with Montenegro Air to Podgorica. Etihad flies from Abu Dhabi to Podgorica via Belgrade. Flights cost from about Dh3,000 return including taxes. There are buses from Podgorica to Plav.
The tour
While you can apply for a permit for the route yourself, it’s best to travel with an agency that will arrange it for you. These include Zbulo in Albania (www.zbulo.org) or Zalaz in Montenegro (www.zalaz.me).
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The specs
Engine: 2-litre 4-cylinder and 3.6-litre 6-cylinder
Power: 220 and 280 horsepower
Torque: 350 and 360Nm
Transmission: eight-speed automatic
Price: from Dh136,521 VAT and Dh166,464 VAT
On sale: now
