Yet another attempt at making Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Tony Ferguson happen has fallen apart, this time due to the coronavirus pandemic. A few days ago, Nurmagomedov’s status in the event was thrown into jeopardy as the Russian government implemented additional measures to slow the spread of the virus. Nurmagomedov has now voluntarily withdrawn from the event, and he’s released a statement expressing his feelings over the situation.
The fighter shared his thoughts on Instagram, asking why he should be exempt from government regulations and expert recommendations just because he’s a fighter:
“Staying home in quarantine and reading the reaction of people to the situation around my fight, it turns out that the whole world should be in quarantine, governments of all countries, famous people around the world urge people to follow all safety requirements in order to limit the spread of the disease, to save people, and Khabib is the only one relieved of all obligations and must demonstrate free will and train flying around the world, for the sake of fight? – I understand everything and I’m definitely upset more than you to cancel the fight, probably like all others, I had many plans after the fight, but I can’t control it all.
The greatest countries and the largest companies of our time are shocked by what is happening, every day the situation changes unpredictably.
But Khabib still has to fight, is that what you saying? –
Take care of yourself and put yourself in my shoes.”
UFC 249 is still scheduled to take place on April 19.
