UFC News: Nurmagomedov Feels McGregor-Poirier Winner Likely To Become New Lightweight Champ

Khabib Nurmagomedov is far from done in the eyes of mixed martial arts (MMA) fans and many are waiting for him to return.

However, that may take a while and this means "The Eagle" may have to give up his UFC lightweight title soon.

For the Russian, the one likely to succeed him will be the winner between Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirer at UFC 257 set in January 2021.

Speaking to Match TV, Nurmagomedov feels that whoever wins that clash will eventually become the new UFC lightweight king.

“Top three [lightweight] fighters right now?” Nurmagomedov said. “Poirier, McGregor and [Islam] Makhachev. He is not in the top five yet, but those are the best fighters.”

For the benefit of those who may not know, the upcoming McGregor vs. Poirier match may have no title on the line. However, that could all change moving forward.

The reason for this may be that the UFC is hoping that Nurmagomedov would change his mind after seeing the clash. As mentioned in a previous post, the Russian said that he will be in attendance at UFC 257 to watch the event.

There is a chance that he and McGregor may cross paths. Both are known to hate each other, but the champion is keeping an open mind.

"I'll act based on the situation. If you don't like someone or they don't like you, it's OK. If I meet someone I don't like, I'll act based on the situation," Nurmadomedov said.

As far as a UFC return, all Nurmagomedov can say is that he and UFC president Dana White are holding talks. However, he remains reserved about a comeback to prevent giving out false hopes to fans.

“Apparently they want me to come back. I have been in the league for nine years, there is already a history, a fan base, their desires are clear,” Nurmagomedov stated. “I will not hide the fact that they offer to return, offer conditions, [and] fighters. We will meet with Dana soon, we will discuss. I would not like there to be a possibility that I will return.”