Nurmagomedov shrugs off Aldo callout: 'I do not bully the little'

Khabib Nurmagomedov is keeping his sights set on Tony Ferguson and the undisputed lightweight championship.

Responding to comments from featherweight champion Jose Aldo regarding a potential meeting with Nurmagomedov for an interim lightweight title, the Dagestani star took to Instagram to explain that he has no interest in fighting a smaller opponent and is still expecting to sign the contract for a rumored No. 1 contender's bout with rival Tony Ferguson:

Tell him that I do not bully the little. I want a real battle, and only Tony can give it to me. At this stage of my career, even if I (beat UFC light heavyweight champion) Daniel Cormier, fans will say that I have to fight with Tony, and I agree with them. I have spent my career in the UFC asking for the strongest opponents, currently in this division we must decide who is stronger: me or Tony? Without exception, all the fans and experts want to see this fight and I want to give it to them.

And you, Aldo, I advise you not to lose the respect of your fans, including me, do not lose your head, do not fall for the mind games of the UFC, and be yourself.

Nurmagomedov is 24-0 in his professional fighting career, including eight wins inside the Octagon. A fight between himself and the streaking Ferguson would presumably establish the first challenger for Conor McGregor's lightweight championship, though McGregor's indeterminate leave of absence from competition casts uncertainty on the UFC's plans for the division.