Conor McGregor was one of the earliest predictors that the UFC 249 title fight between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson wouldn’t happen. But he probably never could have predicted these conditions. Even dating back prior to his January win over Donald Cerrone, former UFC featherweight and lightweight champ McGregor (22-4 MMA, 10-2 UFC) said he thought the fifth booking between Nurmagomedov (28-0 MMA, 12-0 UFC) and Ferguson wouldn’t happen . That prediction became reality Wednesday when Nurmagomedov officially withdrew due to the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on his ability to travel and prepare. Nurmagomedov has been the recipient of much criticism since. Ferguson accused the lightweight champion of “running away” and said he should be stripped of his belt , and others have questioned his decision to not remain Stateside in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak
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