According to reports, Umar Nurmagomedov is set to face Song Yadong at UFC Tampa this December. Though Umar has been waiting for a bantamweight title shot, it appears he will have to wait longer. ‘The Young Eagle’ has been actively calling out Merab Dvalishvili for a title fight, but Dvalishvili hasn’t shown much interest in engaging with Umar.
“Red Corner MMA” initially reported that Umar Nurmagomedov would face Song Yadong, but neither the UFC nor Umar has officially confirmed the news. Umar previously claimed that the bantamweight champion was trying to avoid him and stated that he wouldn’t wait for him. Instead, he is willing to fight anyone the UFC suggests before Ramadan. This situation increases the likelihood of Umar facing Yadong.
After defeating Sean O’Malley at UFC 306 to claim the bantamweight title, Merab Dvalishvili was expected to face ‘The Young Eagle.’ However, Dvalishvili argued that Umar didn’t deserve a title shot, noting that Umar had only beaten one ranked fighter, Cory Sandhagen.
Dvalishvili claimed that Khabib Nurmagomedov helped his cousin Umar rise to success. With rumors swirling about Umar potentially facing Yadong in his next fight, a victory there could put him in line for the long-awaited title shot.
Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Song Yadong Fight Preview
Umar Nurmagomedov is undefeated in the UFC, with an impressive record of 18 wins and no losses. He excels in both grappling and striking, and his training with UFC legend and cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov has strengthened his wrestling abilities. Nurmagomedov recently defeated the No. 2 ranked Cory Sandhagen via unanimous decision, bringing him closer to a title shot.
Song Yadong holds the 8th rank in the bantamweight division and has a record of 21 wins, 8 losses, and 1 no contest. Earlier this year, Yadong faced Petr Yan at UFC 299 on March 9, 2024, where he lost by unanimous decision. Both Nurmagomedov and Yadong possess strong striking and grappling skills, and if this fight happens, it promises to be an exciting matchup.
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