Khabib Nurmagomedov’s much-talked about meeting with Dana White will happen early in January, but judging by his latest comments the chances of him agreeing to fight again seem slim.
“Dana and I are in touch and did not discuss the moment with the vacant belt,” Khabib told Match TV. “This is because they want me to continue.
“This is clear – I have been in the league for nine years and have not lost. I have a story, a big fanbase.
“I don’t blame them and their desire is understandable. They persuade, I will not hide, but this is not surprising.
“They offer conditions and fighters, but it’s hard to surprise fighters. I finished half of the top 10 ahead of schedule.
“And so yes, I repeat: there are conditions and offers. In a couple of weeks, Dana and I will discuss all the points. I would not like to have the likelihood of my return.
Nurmagomedov went even further towards suggesting that he won’t be returning when he stated his belief that the winner of Conor McGregor vs. Dustin Poirier’s rematch at UFC 257 in January will go on to be crowned the new lightweight champion.
“Top three [lightweight] fighters right now? Poirier, McGregor and [Islam] Makhachev. He is not in the top five yet, but those are the best fighters.
“My belt will be taken by the winner of Dustin and Conor.”
However, for those still pinning their hopes on Khabib returning, it is still possible he could vacate the title and then agree to a catchweight or welterweight superfight for the ages with Georges St.Pierre.
