Umar Nurmagomedov (18-0) was supposed to fight Song Yadong (21-8-1, 1 NC) on December 14 in the main event of UFC Fight Night in Tampa. However, the fight had to be canceled.
On X, Nurmagomedov stated that Yadong had declined to fight him in December due to an injury. He then blamed Merab Dvalishvili for not giving him a Bantamweight Title shot.
“I am always ready, and right now I am waiting for an opponent, as Yadong declined to fight in December — I was told he is injured.
Merab, before my fight with Sandhagen, you said that if I beat him, I would deserve recognition. Now you have changed your position — decide who you are.
All the fans and analysts are noticing how you are avoiding the fight.
Championship is recognition, but you haven’t received it, and you know that perfectly well.”
In another post, Nurmagomedov stated that he would not wait for anyone and wanted to fight before Ramadan.
“I am not waiting for anyone and
I want to fight before Ramadan.
I hope UFC finds an opponent. And the title, inshaAllah, is just a matter of time.”
On Instagram, Nurmagomedov agreed to fight Yadong at UFC 311 if he does not book a title fight with Dvalishvili.
I am always ready, and right now I am waiting for an opponent, as Yadong declined to fight in December — I was told he is injured.
— Umar Nurmagomedov (@UNmgdv) October 25, 2024
Merab, before my fight with Sandhagen, you said that if I beat him, I would deserve recognition. Now you have changed your position — decide who…
🚨| Song Yadong and Umar Nurmagomedov agree to fight at #UFC311 on January 18th if Umar does not book a title fight with Merab Dvalishvili before then. 🤝 pic.twitter.com/tPRwjqfXep
— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) October 25, 2024