10 September 2020

UFC boss Dana White confirms Khabib-Gaethje will take place in ‘European prime time'

UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov will defend his title against Justin Gaethje on ‘European prime time’, boss Dana White has confirmed.

The Russian is set to face his American challenger at UFC 254 on October 24 in the second edition of ‘Fight Island’ in Abu Dhabi.

Gaethje put on a scintillating display to beat Ferguson at UFC 249 (PA Images)

And White has now revealed the clash will take place at a suitable time for European fight fans, meaning it will get underway in the afternoon for American viewers.

MMA journalist Carlos Contreras Legaspi posted on Twitter: "Dana White tells me #UFC254 will be held in european prime time at #UFCFightIsland2 so fans can see Khabib Nurmagomedov Vs. Justin Gaethje.

"Afternoon in American time like what they did on #UFC242."

Khabib has not fought since he beat Dustin Poirier at UFC 242 in September 2019 but still holds a perfect professional record of 28 wins and no defeats.

The 31 year-old’s career has stalled after he recently suffered the loss of his father following complications relating to coronavirus.

Meanwhile, Gaethje produced the best performance of his career to stop Tony Ferguson behind closed doors in May to earn his shot at Nurmagomedov.

Israel Adesanya and Paulo Costa are expected to headline UFC 253 on September 26, which will be the first Fight Island event of the new five show run, according to ESPN.

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