If Khabib Nurmagomedov is out, the UFC won’t have to look hard for a replacement.
Former UFC lightweight title challenger Dustin Poirier has thrown his name into the hat as a potential replacement opponent for Tony Ferguson should UFC lightweight champ Nurmagomedov be unable to compete at UFC 249 on April 18 – provided the event still happens.
Poirier (25-6 MMA, 17-5 UFC) made his intentions clear Monday on Twitter, which he expanded on in a text exchange with MMA Junkie. While the circumstances aren’t ideal, Poirier admitted, he’s already volunteered his services to the UFC brass.
“Not an ideal time frame or preparation, but any chance I get to prove that I’m the best, I’ll take it,” Poirier told MMA Junkie. “I texted Dana and Sean that I would fight Tony.”
Poirier’s offering stems from Monday’s news of a potential UFC 249 main event fallout. In an Instagram Live video, Nurmagomedov said he may not be able to headline the April 18 card against Ferguson because he is stuck in Russia.
“So now I am hearing that they are looking to organize it with or without me. OK, go ahead,” Nurmagomedov said. “Everyone should follow the laws. I am not against it.
The country currently has a travel lockdown, which would restrict Nurmagomedov (28-0 MMA, 12-0 UFC) from flying out of Russia to the United States, or presumably anywhere else outside the country.
UFC 249 was originally scheduled to take place in Brooklyn, N.Y. However, the card was moved after New York state officials implemented restrictions on large gatherings.
UFC president Dana White has promised the April 18 card will happen, but has been reluctant to release any information as to a potential location or venue.
At the moment, Poirier is penciled in to fight Dan Hooker in the UFC on ESPN+ 33 main event May 16 in San Diego.
