Tony Ferguson will officially face Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title at UFC 249.
‘El Cucuy’ was set to face defending champion Khabib Nurmagomedov on April 18 in Brooklyn, but the event was moved after New York social distancing laws came into place.
The coronavirus pandemic effectively ruled Nurmagomedov out of the bout completely when he returned to his native Russia and was left unable to travel.
In his absence, president Dana White has called upon No.4 ranked contender Gaethje to fill the void and save the show.
Nicknamed ‘The Highlight’ for his explosive fists and destructive style of fighting, the former NCAA Division I All-American wrestler has propelled himself up the food chain with three successive first round knockouts.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Gaethje was reportedly in line to face Conor McGregor during International Fight Week in July.
And speaking just last month, the 31-year-old revealed he would always value a title shot over a lucrative money fight.
“Khabib, it’s Khabib,” Gaethje told CBS Sports. “It’s way more valuable to me for legacy and for everything.
“And ultimately, if I was able to beat Khabib and then fight Conor, well that’s f****** red panty night.
“If you’re going to have a red panty night, that’s a red panty night.”
Victory over Ferguson on April 18 at the as yet unnamed venue will set up an undisputed title clash with Khabib later this year – which is almost exactly how the Russian’s 2019 went.
Conor McGregor gives emotional post-fight interview after victorious return at UFC 246
After serving a suspension for his part in the brawl against McGregor at UFC 229, the sambo specialist moved to 28-0 with a crushing win over interim champion Dustin Poirier at UFC 242 in Abu Dhabi.
Where this leaves the Irishman remains to be seen, with a trilogy fight against Nate Diaz, a welterweight clash against Nate Diaz or even the possibility of fighting the loser from April 18 later this year genuine possibilities.
