TONY FERGUSON is set for a UFC return and will "probably" face Dustin Poirier.

The 36-year-old was in line to finally challenge lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov in May.

But Nurmagomedov, 31, had to pull out due to travel restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic – with Justin Gaethje filling in.

Ferguson was stunned by Gaethje as a striking masterclass from the underdog earned a fifth-round KO.

Now the American is lined up to fight Poirier in a lightweight title eliminator having held talks with the UFC.

Asked if Ferguson has a bout lined up, White responded: "We do."

When questioned whether Poirier is the opponent, the promoter said: "Probably."

Unbeaten Khabib is set to unify his belt against interim champion Gaethje, 31, in October.

He then wants to tempt welterweight legend Georges St-Pierre out of retirement for a super-fight in April – which could be the Russian's final.

But should GSP fail to fight once more, Nurmagomedov announced he would face any opponent that first beats Poirier, 31.

Khabib said: “If I don’t fight St-Pierre, I’d fight anyone who beats Dustin Poirier next, whether it’s Tony Ferguson or McGregor, after I fight Gaethje.

“So Georges St-Pierre is next. If not, let Conor beat Poirier, or have Tony beat him, then I’ll fight them.

“Why? Because right now Poirier is the next contender.

"We already fought and I beat him, then he came back and beat a top-five guy.

"So if Conor and Tony beat Poirier, I’ll fight them if I don’t fight Georges St-Pierre.”

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