Khabib Nurmagomedov’s popularity knows no bounds in the Russian Federation.

Legendary heavyweight and fellow Russian, Fedor Emelianenko, expressed his thoughts on the undefeated lightweight’s quest for a UFC title shot. According to the former Pride FC heavyweight champ, Nurmagomedov has earned his opportunity to challenge McGregor.

“It depends on the leadership of the UFC and fighters themselves,” Emelianenko told Lenta.ru. “I think this fight is possible. Habib has long earned the right to fight for a title, he made up for it all. He should be given a chance.”

While Khabib told Russian media last week that there was a “90-percent chance” that he would face Tony Ferguson for the interim lightweight title at UFC 209, it appears as though Ferguson is currently in a contract dispute with the promotion. Nurmagomedov has also seemingly turned down a fight with UFC featherweight champ Jose Aldo. His father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, later explained that they were only interested in lightweight contests against McGregor and Ferguson, or a welterweight fight against Donald Cerrone.

Despite the ongoing dilemma to determine McGregor’s next title challenger in 2017, Emelianenko believes a clash with Khabib will be inevitable, as well as entertaining.

“The Irishman is very good at striking,” he explained to izvestia.ru. “It's a well known fact. But Khabib is professionals on the ground. If this fight will take place, I am sure, it will be a very entertaining fight!”