
Islam
Makhachev believes his teammate, Usman
Nurmagomedov, is on his way to the
Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Nurmagomedov recently completed his
Professional Fighters League contract with a knockout victory
over Archie
Colgan, sparking discourse over where the undefeated
lightweight will compete next. He previously discussed turning down
a $2 million-per-fight deal from the PFL and Makhachev’s recent
comments further indicate a UFC signing is imminent.
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Usman Nurmagomedov is a free agent after completing his PFL
contract
Makhachev says there’s a strong chance Nurmagomedov will now join
the UFC. The welterweight champ claims this is the perfect time for
his teammate to make the jump and work towards championship gold in
the division he and their mentor, Khabib
Nurmagomedov, once ruled.
“It’s the perfect move for him. He needs to prove he’s the best in
the world. He could face a Top 10 rival and soon earn a title
shot,” Makhachev told Russian outlet Match TV. “He grew up alongside Khabib and me,
has trained with the best from the start of his career and has
extensive experience working with champions; now is the best time
for him to join the UFC.”
While Makhachev doesn’t guarantee a UFC move, he’s confident
Nurmagomedov will join him on the roster.
“I can’t give you 100% answer,” Makhachev added. “But 90%? Yes. I
think Usman has already grown beyond where he is now. Not many
people are interested anymore in seeing him fight rematches in the
PFL. I think right now is the perfect time for him to come to the
UFC. There are so many dangerous guys in the division. He can prove
that he’s the best in the world. It’s all leading to something
good.””
🚨 There is a 90% chance that Usman
Nurmagomedov will sign with the UFC, according to Islam
Makhachev 👀“I can’t give you a 100% answer. But 90%? Yes. I think Usman has
already grown beyond where he is now.Not many people are interested anymore in seeing him fight
rematches… pic.twitter.com/yerZlhM4PV— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS)
September 9, 2026