By FCF Staff

Amidst ongoing speculation as to when and who Umar Nurmagomedov will fight next, the bantamweight’s disclosed an arm injury will prevent him from fighting in January.

Ever since Nurmagomedov (18-0) defeated Cory Sandhagen by decision this past August, the undefeated fighter has been calling for a title shot. The 28-year-old has also claimed he was told by UFC officials he’s next in line for a title fight. But, champion Merab Dvalishvili has repeatedly argued Nurmagomedov isn’t deserving of a title shot yet.

Several weeks ago, there were reports Nurmagomedov had agreed to fight Song Yadong in December, but no announcement ever came. More recently, the Dagestani fighter reported the following via social media:

“I had a small arm fracture and couldn’t perform in January. My arm is fine now, and I’m open to any offers. Anyone, Anywhere!! @ufc”

Nurmagomedov has gone 6-0 since he joined the UFC in 2021. Following Petr Yan’s decision victory over Deiveson Figueiredo in November, he called for a rematch with Dvalishvili, and the champion proceeded by proposing a fight in March.

Dvalishvili outwrestled and grappled Yan in their March, 2023 fight to record a clear-cut, decision win.