There’s no shortage of compelling story lines tied to today’s UFC 254 card, and one of those is the fact Khabib Nurmagomedov [1] will be fighting for the first time, since he father Abdulmanap passed away.
To pay tribute to that fact, recently the UFC released a touching tribute for the renowned coach, which features Jon Anik narrating the “A Father to His Son,” a poem written by Carl Sandburg.
“A Father to His Son”
Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov [2] passed away earlier this year at the age of 57, as a result of medical complications he incurred after contracting COVID-19. You can also check out BT Sport’s tribute to the legendary coach here. [3]
UFC 254 line-up
Here is the complete line-up for today’s massive event, which is taking place on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi (line-up via MMA Mania [4]).
UFC 254 PPV Main Card
155 lbs.: UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. UFC Interim Lightweight Titleholder Justin Gaethje
185 lbs.: Robert Whittaker vs. Jared Cannonier
265 lbs.: Walt Harris vs. Alexander Volkov
125 lbs.: Cynthia Calvillo vs. Lauren Murphy
205 lbs.: Ion Cutelaba vs. Magomed Ankalaev
UFC 254 Prelims Card
265 lbs.: Stefan Struve vs. Tai Tuivasa
125 lbs.: Liana Jojua vs. Miranda Maverick
205 lbs.: Sam Alvey vs. Da Un Jung
155 lbs.: Phil Hawes vs. Jacob Malkoun
*Card subject to change