After what could be considered the most chaotic week in UFC history — perhaps even mixed martial arts history — Khabib Nurmagomedov’s hopes of becoming the next UFC Lightweight Champion are still alive.
First he was supposed to fight Tony Ferguson. After Ferguson was injured, Khabib was scheduled to take on Featherweight Champion Max Holloway (interestingly, the fight would be for the Lightweight title), but then Conor McGregor’s infamous attack took place, forcing Holloway to the sidelines. After that, there was talk of a fight against former Lightweight Champion Anthony Pettis, but according to Khabib, Pettis wanted a million dollars for the fight.
It seemed like Nurmagomedov’s chance at the gold would be have to be put on hold…again!
But just when it seemed like all hope was lost, “Ragin'” Al Iaquinta stepped up to the plate and saved the day.
WOW what a week. Thank you Ragin Al for demanding this fight and thank u Khabib for being willing to fight ANYONE all week!!!
Posted by Dana White on Friday, April 6, 2018
Khabib Nurmagomedov will now be taking on Al Iaquinta for the vacant Lightweight Championship.
Unfortunately for Ragin’ Al and his fans, only Khabib will be eligible for the belt. That’s because Iaquinta weighed in 0.2 pounds over the 155-pound limit.
Still, after having saved the UFC 223 card, he is certainly on UFC President Dana White’s good side, and will not doubt make a strong argument to be next in line for a shot at the Lightweight Championship if he wins.
On behalf of MMA fans everywhere, I would like to join Dana White in thanking Ragin’ Al Iaquinta for saving the UFC 223 card!
