"I’ll deal with the consequences"- Umar Nurmagomedov discusses title sacrifice for Ramadan, sets narrative straight on rivalry with Merab Dvalishvili
Umar Nurmagomedov recently opened up about sacrificing his bantamweight title shot for Ramadan and set the record straight regarding his rivalry with Merab Dvalishvili. The Dagestani is believed to be the next contender in line for the 135-pound title, but there is speculation that the bout won't transpire after all.
Nurmagomedov has been open regarding Ramadan and expressed interest in fighting as soon as possible. He took to his X account to clarify the ongoing uncertainty surrounding his bantamweight title shot.
Nurmagomedov confirmed that he was offered a title fight for UFC 310 on Dec. 7 and that he had only declined a March date because it is the month of Ramadan.
The 28-year-old noted that he likely won't receive a title shot until next December if Dvalishvili defends against another contender in March. Nurmagomedov requested that he be granted an opportunity prior to or after Ramadan.
Nurmagomedov mentioned that he is aware that his beliefs could jeopardize his title shot, but remains hopeful that the UFC will book the title fight:
"I'm not asking anyone to accept my beliefs or to accommodate me. I'm a realist. I understand that by making this choice, I may lose my chance to fight for the title, and I'll deal with the consequences myself. I think that if Merab fights someone in March, he won't be ready to face me until December 2025. But if they let me fight him in May, then as long as I'm healthy, I'll be ready to fight twice more before the end of the year."
Check out Umar Nurmagomedov's post below:
Umar Nurmagomedov shows respect to Merab Dvalishvili
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their rumored bantamweight title fight, Umar Nurmagomedov clarified that he has a great deal of respect for Merab Dvalishvili.
Nurmagomedov took to his X account to show respect to Dvalishvili and clarified that he doesn't mean any disrespect and that they'll find out who the better fighter is:
"I don't want to disrespect Merab. If I somehow did, then I have no problem apologizing. He's someone who came up from the very bottom and became a champion. His journey deserves respect. He's a true hard worker. Between him and me, it's only about the championship belt. There's no reason for any insults. When our fight is scheduled, we'll find out who's stronger, and that's all there is to it."
Check out Umar Nurmagomedov's post below: