Khabib Nurmagomedov (photo via UFC)

By FCF Staff

Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson have exchange plenty of warnings leading up to their bout on Saturday, but it sounds like “The Eagle” isn’t really sure why that is.

After it was announced that lightweight champ Conor McGregor was taking some time off, both Nurmagomedov and Ferguson campaigned to fight one another. Leading up to their bout at UFC 209, the two have had several heated exchanges through the press and at media events.

Recently Nurmagomedov appeared on “UFC Tonight“, and when asked where the tension between the two comes from, the Russian fighter said (quote via FOX Sports 1 press release):

“I don’t know. I don’t feel nothing about him. I don’t like him a little bit. But we have to give him respect. His skills, his win streak, his ground game and striking. I don’t want to underestimate this guy. I want to finish this guy.”

Nurmagomedov even turned down an opportunity to fight Jose Aldo, as the lightweight insisted that a fight with Ferguson was the bout fans wanted to see. When asked how he’s changed his camp to prepare for the well rounded “El Cucuy”, Nurmagomedov stated:

“I change my training camp for every fight. I trained for Michael Johnson with a lot of boxing guys. For this fight, I trained for everything. I’m ready. I’m the best shape in my life.”

Ferguson and Nurmagomedov will be competing for the vacant, interim title at UFC 209, which will take place in Las Vegas.