UFC's Khabib Nurmagomedov, Evan Dunham want possible B.J. Penn matchup

If B.J. Penn does extend his career and make a potential return to the UFC lightweight division, two notable 155-pounders have offered their services for a fight.

Following Tuesday’s report on FUEL TV’s “UFC Tonight” that Penn is considering another fight, likely at lightweight, both Khabib Nurmagomedov and Evan Dunham expressed their desire for the matchup.

As Nurmagomedov tweeted: “I heard that the legend returns .. I will be glad to meet him. He is the best lightweight fighter in the history, I’m his fan since childhood, I deserve this fight.”

Dunham echoed those sentiments: “With all respect if BJ Penn needs an opponent when he returns I am more than will. Would be an honor to fight him.”

Penn (16-9-2 MMA, 12-8-2 UFC), a former UFC lightweight and welterweight champion, hasn’t fought since a bloody UFC on FOX 5 loss to 170-pound contender Rory MacDonald in December. The defeat moved the 34-year-old “Prodigy” to just 1-4-1 in his past six fights.

But his legendary career has made him one of the most recognizable names in the sport. And for a younger fighter, it’s a great opportunity to notch a signature win in a high-profile bout.

Currently, Nurmagomedov (20-0 MMA, 4-0 UFC) is ranked No. 15 and Dunham (14-4 MMA, 7-4 UFC) is an honorable mention in the USA TODAY Sports/MMAjunkie.com MMA lightweight rankings. Nurmagomedov is undefeated with four consecutive UFC victories, which included a pair over veterans Gleison Tibau and Thiago Tavares. Dunham, meanwhile, recently suffered a controversial decision loss to Rafael dos Anjos. Prior to the May loss, he was on a 3-1 run that included two “Fight of the Night” awards.

For more on the UFC’s upcoming schedule, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.

(Pictured: Khabib Nurmagomedov)