Once again, the anticipated fight between Tony Ferguson and Khabib Nurmagomedov has been postponed after the UFC cancelled the event that was slated to take place on the 18th of April.

This is the fourth time the two were set to do battle only to watch the event slip away due to injuries sustained from other fights. However, this time, it was related to Khabib Nurmagomedov inability to leave Russia amid the countries response to COVID-19 and locking down all travel outside of the country.

Previously, even as late as last week UFC President, Dana White was adamant that UFC 249 would not be cancelled albeit without fans in attendance. However, he abruptly changed position after California Senator Diane Feinstein expressed concerns that going ahead with the event would be in direct violation of the state’s order to distance from others and not participate in any group events.

According to a Saturday post by Ferguson on Twitter, the UFC lightweight former interim champion stated that it is his intention to weigh in on Friday at 155 pounds. The Twitter post read; “Still Working, Going to Make Weight By Friday” #ChampionshipWeight 155lbs. It’s A TUF Thing. Champ Shit Only #ufc249. Keep Grindin’ Crew”

Ferguson had hoped to see the fight go ahead, but with opponent Khabib Nurmagomedov unable to leave his home country, it saw the Russian removed from the main card and replaced with Justin Gaethje, which for many is not his equal but now that is a dead deal as well with 249 being cancelled outright.

Commenting on the announcement, a disappointed Ferguson, who had been training aggressively in preparation for the fight against Nurmagomedov and then adjusting his style to accommodate Gaethje as a replacement, said; “Oh wow, Oh, well. I’m still going to train. I’m sure it’s for a good reason. Let’s be real. I got to keep the faith.”

Ferguson has not fought since the summer of 2019 during UFC 238 when he defeated Donald Cerrone. However, he has yet to enter the cage since the later part of 2018 and was anticipating a big return with hopes of a victory over Nurmagomedov

UFC President, Dana White was keen to keep things as they were with UFC 249 and had confirmed that the fight would go ahead at the Tachi Palace Resort Casino but that fans would not be in attendance.

However, being that ESPN broadcasts all UGC fight nights, its owners Disney opted to put a stop to the proceedings and orders halt the planning of the event even though it was to be fought behind closed doors.

White commented that he wants to see fighting resume as soon as possible and has arranged for fights to take place on a private island. The UFC  will flaunt the bout as “Fight Island” with expectations being that it will happen within the next month after the island is prepared. Commenting, White said; “I’m telling all my guys not to worry because ‘Fight Island’ is gonna happen. All the infrastructure is being built right now and getting put in place.”