After Khamzat Chimaev withdrew from UFC Saudi Arabia, the UFC roped in Ikram Aliskerov as a short-notice replacement. Aliskerov, who is from Dagestan and part of Team Khabib, appeared to have gotten advice from Khabib Nurmagomedov about the fight.
Aliskerov has only fought twice in the UFC, finishing both in the first round. UFC Saudi Arabia will be his first headliner. Robert Whittaker, the former middleweight champion, is standing against him. Whittaker is currently ranked third in the division, while Aliskerov is outside the rankings.
Ikram Aliskerov Gains Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Insight
Ikram Aliskerov pulled out of his scheduled fight against Antonio Troccoli to participate in UFC Saudi Arabia. Aliskerov recently spoke with Red Corner MMA, revealing the advice he got from his teammate Khabib Nurmagomedov.
“Pay attention because he’s [Robert Whittaker] a striker. Be attentive, and everything will work out,” said Aliskerov of Nurmagomedov’s advice, refusing to reveal in detail the game plan provided by Nurmagomedov.
Aliskerov clarified that neither Islam Makhachev nor Nurmagomedov will be in his corner, citing that they are resting after UFC 302. However, he revealed that Nurmagomedov urged him to adapt to the time zone.
Nurmagomedov praised Aliskerov’s decision to fight Whittaker, citing that such chances won’t come often. Aliskerov has opened as a slight betting underdog, but many feel the short-notice fight will favor the underdog.
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