Petr Yan recently shut down the idea of fighting Umar Nurmagomedov in a bantamweight clash. Despite the potential title implications, Yan explained why he’s not keen on facing Nurmagomedov.
Yan secured an impressive unanimous decision win over Marcus McGhee at UFC Abu Dhabi last Saturday. The win was significant, as Yan, ranked No.3 and faced No.12 McGhee, taking a considerable risk. It marked his third straight win, following victories over Song Yadong and Deiveson Figueiredo.
In a conversation with Ushatayka, Yan was asked if he would consider fighting Nurmagomedov next. ‘Young Eagle’ is coming off his first-ever loss, a unanimous decision defeat to Merab Dvalishvili, and has not fought since.
Yan dismissed the idea, questioning Nurmagomedov’s status in the division, suggesting his success and opportunities stem from his cousin Khabib. He claimed that ‘Young Eagle’ has benefited from Khabib’s success rather than his merit.
“Umar [Nurmagomedov] lost his last fight. He hasn’t had a single fight since,” Yan said. “They have the option to wait and not train at all. It could be a year, six months.”
He added:
“I need to act, to work, to pave the way for myself with my labor. Neither my brothers nor my sisters have given me anything.”
Petr Yan Calls for Bantamweight Title Shot
Following his victory over McGhee, Yan made it clear that he believes he deserves the next bantamweight title shot. However, he must wait as Dvalishvili will defend his title against Cory Sandhagen at UFC 320.
Yan, a former bantamweight champion, has faced challenges in recent years. In 2023, ‘No Mercy’ struggled through a three-fight losing streak, with his UFC career possibly hanging in the balance.
Yan has rebounded and worked his way back into title contention in the stacked bantamweight division.
In his post-fight interview with Michael Bisping, Yan pointed out that he holds a victory over Sandhagen. He also expressed his desire to face the winner of the bantamweight title fight, scheduled for Oct. 4.
“Everybody knows I fought with [Sandhagen], I beat him,” Yan said. “Now, I want to fight next with whoever wins [the bantamweight] title fight.”
Yan’s comments can also be interpreted as a message to the UFC matchmakers. He highlighted his road back into title contention after losing his title and implied that Nurmagomedov should have to defeat a top contender before being in title conversations.
Yan’s history with both Dvalishvili and Sandhagen could also generate more interest in a potential rematch with either fighter.
Merab Dvalishvili Reacts to Petr Yan’s Victory at UFC Abu Dhabi
Dvalishvili weighed in and reacted to Yan’s victory over McGhee and appeared to be impressed with ‘No Mercy’.
Following the fight, Dvalishvili publicly congratulated Yan on another impressive victory:
This congratulatory message from Dvalishvili was significant. It indicates that the reigning bantamweight champion wouldn’t shy away from a potential rematch with Yan.
Yan responded by thanking Dvalishvili and wishing him well for his upcoming fight against Sandhagen. He also made it clear that he would love to face Dvalisvhili and avenge his loss, this time for the bantamweight championship.
“Thanks Merab, good luck in your next fight. Hopefully it’s me and you for the belt after.”
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