Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Nurmagomedov recently finished his
Professional fighter league over the contract with a knockout victory Archie Colgansparking discourse about where the undefeated lightweight will compete next. He previously discussed rejecting the PFL’s $2 million fight deal, and Makhachev’s recent comments further indicate that a UFC signing is imminent.
Usman Nurmagomedov is a free agent after completing his PFL contract
Makhachov says Nurmagomedov is now very likely to join the UFC. The lightweight champion claims this is the perfect time for his teammate to make the jump and push for championship gold for him and their mentor. Khabib Nurmagomedovorder reigned.
“This is a perfect move for him. He needs to prove that he is the best in the world. He can face a Top 10 rival and earn a title win soon,” Makhachov told the Russian publication. Match TV. “He grew up with Khabib and me, has trained with the best since the beginning of his career and has extensive experience working with champions; now is the best time for him to join the UFC.”
While Makhachov won’t guarantee a move to the UFC, he is confident that Nurmagomedov will join him on the roster.
“I can’t give you a 100% answer,” Makhachov added. “What about 90%? Yeah. I think Usman has already grown beyond where he is now. A lot of people aren’t interested in seeing him rematch in the PFL anymore. I think now is the best 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 all leads to something good.”
🚨 The probability of this is 90%. Usman Nurmagomedov will sign with the UFC, respectively Islam Makhachov 👀
“I can’t give you a 100% answer. But 90%? Yeah. I think Usman has already grown beyond where he is now.
Many people are no longer interested in seeing him in reruns… pic.twitter.com/yerZlhM4PV
— Championship Stages (@ChampRDS)
September 9, 2026