Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson could soon get their wish.
The two lightweights had a rivalry that dominated over the 155-pound division for years prior to Nurmagomedov’s retirement in 2020. At one point, Nurmagomedov and Ferguson each owned dueling 12-fight UFC win streaks and were unquestionably the two top lightweights in the world, however their failure to meet in the cage will forever be one of MMA’s greatest “what ifs.” The pair were booked to settle the rivalry four times throughout their careers, but never once actually made it to fight night with the bout still intact.
There may be an opportunity, however.
In an interview last month with MMA Fighting , Ferguson suggested that the two of them serve as coaches for a season The Ultimate Fighter .. Nurmagomedov quickly supported the idea – and UFC President Dana White seems to be in agreement.
“So you’re telling me, you guys as fans, media, whatever it might be, like the idea of two guys possibly coaching that wouldn’t fight each other?” White responded Tuesday when asked about Ferguson’s proposal on The Spinnin Backfist MMA Show.
” I’ll take it into consideration. Congratulations. … That idea will be considered
Nurmagomedov (29-0) has not competed since he closed out his run as UFC lightweight champion with a submission win over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 that gave him a perfect 13-0 record in the promotion. Today, “The Eagle”, who is the promoter and owner of Eagle FC, an upcoming MMA organisation, is very visible.
Ferguson (25-7) has fallen on hard times since his 12-fight win streak ended at the hands of Gaethje in 2020. He’s lost four straight bouts, most recently suffering a brutal knockout loss to Michael Chandler at UFC 274, however “El Cucuy” remains a fan favorite within the sport. Ferguson also has a history with The Ultimate Fighter, having won the 13th season of the show back in 2011.
If White is serious Ferguson and Nurmagomedov might soon be able add TUF coaches on their resumes.
” Hopefully, they will get pissed at one another enough that they want to fight. I can make them do it,” White joked.
“I’m in. You sold me.”
