The pair are scheduled to do battle for the unified world title in Abu Dhabi, as the UFC makes its third visit to the UAE.

After what will be nearly nine months away from the UFC, Khabib Nurmagomedov is headed back into the Octagon this autumn to face Dustin Poirier in what is already being touted as one of the biggest events in UFC history.

The reigning UFC lightweight world champion will battle interim champ Dustin Poirier in a title unification bout at UFC 242 in Abu Dhabi on September 7, it has been officially announced.

The event marks the long-awaited return of Nurmagomedov, who was suspended for instigating the post-fight scuffle that followed his fourth-round submission victory over Conor McGregor at UFC 229 in Las Vegas last October. But now Nurmagomedov is back, and ready to put his undisputed world title on the line against Poirier.

Nurmagomedov is one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. ‘The Eagle’ as he is known, remains unbeaten in the UFC Octagon.

Meanwhile Poirier is on a six-fight unbeaten streak. The Louisiana native won the interim title by beating Max Holloway at UFC 236 earlier this year.

Tickets go on sale on Friday June 7. Check out visitabudhabi.ae to sign up now and be eligible for early access tickets.

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