Unless something changes soon, the lightweight title will not be on the line at UFC 257, and Conor McGregor’s longtime coach, John Kavanagh, isn’t really sure why.
Kavanagh wonders if White’s decision is a “little carrot” for Khabib
As you surely know, the man who currently holds the UFC’s lightweight title, Khabib Nurmagomedov, announced he was retiring in October. Following his impressive win over Justin Gaethje, Khabib reported he promised his mom the bout would be his last, following the passing of his father earlier in the year.
But, despite Khabib’s retirement, the UFC has not stripped the star of the belt. In fact, UFC President Dana White has said he thinks Khabib might change his mind and return for one more fight.
As a result, the January 23rd bout between McGregor and Dustin Poirier isn’t for a title. Not even an interim one.
Recently Kavanagh spoke with the MacLife, and while talking about the status of the UFC 257 headliner, he said this (quotes via MMA Fighting).
“I don’t really get why this one isn’t for the title, if I’m being 100 percent honest.” Kavanagh said.
“Maybe it’s Dana, this is a little carrot towards Khabib ‘do you really want this guy [to have it?].’ I don’t know.
I know there’s stuff, the games that go on, I don’t involve myself in it.
“But this to me feels like it’s for the belt. But I guess at the very least the winner of this will be offered a title fight but who would that be against?
It’s a bit of a strange scene we have in front of us, which makes it interesting.”
And while discussing whether he thinks Khabib could decide to fight again, Kavanagh said this.
“I think Conor and Khabib are the two best lightweights,” Kavanagh said.
“It would be for me from a coaching perspective, phenomenal to see that contest again. Will he come back? You’re asking the wrong guy. That’s Khabib.
“He seems the type of guy if he says something, that’s it, but like Dana has hinted, there might be some wiggle room in those promises made. Time will tell.”
Thoughts?
Kavanagh isn’t the only person to question why McGregor – Poirier 2 isn’t for a belt, or an interim one at minimum. After all, Khabib has repeated several times now that he’s retired.
One could argue that Justin Gaethje should be involved in any bout for a title, since he’s ranked #2.
All that aside, White is planning to meet with Khabib in early January. So, if Khabib insists that he is done, and there’s zero chance of him fighting again, you never know.
Could the UFC change gears on short notice and put a title on the line at UFC 257?
More About:MMA MMA Frenzy Sports