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By Simon Head
MMA author
Even the UFC octagon has landed in the desert night as Abu Dhabi plays host into UFC 242 on Saturday.
Along with the world champion Khabib Nurmagomedov is put for the event because he faces champion Dustin Poirier in a title unification bout.
The undefeated Russian has compiled a 27-0 record and most recently finished Conor McGregor through entry at UFC 229.
Despite dominant displays throughout his UFC career and his own record, 30, Nurmagomedov, said he is carrying the challenge of Poirier but admitted his plan is different to his matchups because he looks to successfully defend his name.
“Dustin Poirier’s a very tough opponent,” Nurmagomedov stated on Wednesday at the UFC 242 open work outs. “I don’t wish to dismiss him. He’s got a lot of expertise. But when I go to the cage make him tap. This is my strategy.”
Nurmagomedov faces a contender who believes their primary event matchup represents his moment as a fighter.
30, america’s Poirier, heads to the octagon because the UFC interim champion, having conquered world champion Max Holloway at April and is in the form of his career.
Speaking at the work outs that were open underdog Poirier stated he is ready to show the doubters wrong.
“I have had naysayers my whole life and conquer the odds,” he said.
“I am just in the moment, appreciative of the opportunity and won’t let it slide through my fingers. Capitalise I’m here in order to take benefit of this and become the world champion.
“I have had courses in declines and picking myself off the ground. Being undefeated is incredible. It’s difficult to do, particularly against the contest he is [Nurmagomedov] confronted. However, I’ve heard lessons through trial, even through error and triumph that he’s never learned yet. There’s something about pursuing your dreams and picking yourself up off the ground again and again.
“I simply can’t be broken. I will not be broken. I’m here to make history”
Additionally top are top fighters that are lightweight Brazilian Edson Barboza and American Paul Felder, who confront each other within an rematch.
This struggle has crap talk or no blood, with Felder saying their strategy will be appreciated by lovers of martial arts – and the fight.
“That is all about martial arts for me,” Felder said at the workouts.
“It is because I love everything I do. That Edson is. I promise that’s what we’re going to put on display for you guys, a war of martial arts and ethics.”
The two fighters at different points in their careers are put to confront competitors on Saturday.
Scotland’s Joanne Calderwood is looking to push her claims for a shot at the women title in her UFC competition with success over rival Andrea Lee.
And when he takes about the card on Nurmagomedov’s team-mate Zubaira Tukhugov Manchester’s undefeated lightweight Lerone Murphy will look to spring a shock.

Read more here: https://nuni.or.id/?p=10381