Ali Abdelaziz suggests former two-time champion as next opponent for Umar Nurmagomedov
Umar Nurmagomedov has been having some trouble finding an opponent after his dominant run in the UFC thus far. With rumors of fighters potentially avoiding the prospect, Ali Abdelaziz has presented a possible opponent for the 135er.
The younger cousin of Khabib Nurmagomedov has been a revelation in the UFC bantamweight division since joining the promotion a couple of years back. Having fought just four times in the octagon thus far, the rising talent has showcased his impressive striking and grappling abilities.
In an urgent attempt to find Umar Nurmagomedov a matchup, renowned MMA manager Ali Abdelaziz has called for former two-time bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz to take the fight.
"No one wants to fight Umar Nurmagomedov, this is the fight to make against this legend."
No one want to fight @UNmgdv this is the flight to make against this legend https://t.co/MeJ0u87y6W
After back-to-back wins over Casey Kenney and Pedro Munhoz, Dominick Cruz was on the receiving end of a huge head-kick knockout that saw his undefeated streak end.
Heading into his fight against Marlon Vera, the veteran was confident of a win and looked impressive throughout before being caught midway through the fourth round. The win propelled 'Chito' into a position where he is likely one more win away from a title shot.
Dominick Cruz's next fight: Is Umar Nurmagomedov a possible opponent for 'The Dominator'?
Dominick Cruz will once again have to fight his way back into the top five of the division following his defeat to Marlon Vera last time out. But is Umar Nurmagomedov a realistic next opponent?
Cruz and Nurmagomedov are currently ranked #7 and #11 respectively and are on completely different paths in their careers.
'The Dominator' has been competing in MMA for 18 years and is likely approaching the end of his time in the cage. However, he could place himself in one last title push if he is able to put together a number of wins.
At just 27 years of age, Nurmagomedov is just getting started in MMA and boasts an incredible 16-0 record early on in his career. With a perfect start to life in the UFC and a sickening knockout of Raoni Barcelos last time out, having a name like Dominick Cruz on his resume could propel the Dagestani to title contention.