Khabib Nurmagomedov appeared frustrated as he stood among journalists in Moscow for a quick media scrum several days later. Fresh off a dominant showing at the UFC’s landmark New York City event, the Dagestani native is no closer to securing a long-awaited lightweight title shot.
In the immediate aftermath of his third round finish of Michael Johnson at UFC 205, Nurmagomedov called out the UFC’s “chicken,” Conor McGregor, in a memorable post-fight promo. His attempt was futile, however, as McGregor defeated Eddie Alvarez to claim a historic second simultaneous UFC title before announcing an extended break to be with his growing family.