“Head Kick KO”: Ali Abdelaziz Predicts Usman Nurmagomedov Finishes Ilia Topuria and Other UFC Elites

UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov’s cousin Usman is fresh from his first-round finish in his lightweight title defense against Archie Colgan at PFL New York in July. 

With the win, Usman improved his pro record to 22-0 and completed his PFL contract in style. Now that Usman has entered free agency, Abdelaziz wasted no time in predicting his chances against UFC elites.  

Abdelaziz Predicts Usman Nurmagomedov Goes Through the Entire Division

Days after his client's PFL victory, Ali Abdelaziz took to X and dropped a bold prediction that covered four potential fights for the Dagestani prospect. 

Abdelaziz predicted Usman to knock out Ilia Topuria in the third round, finish Charles Oliveira via second-round submission, knock out Max Holloway in the fourth round, and beat Paddy Pimblett via ground and pound in the second round. 

“Against Ilia Topuria — Usman Nurmagomedov by third-round head kick knockout. Against Charles Oliveira — Usman Nurmagomedov by second-round submission. Against Max Holloway — Usman Nurmagomedov by fourth-round knockout. Against Paddy Pimblett — Usman Nurmagomedov by second-round TKO via ground and pound,” Abdelaziz posted. 

He also shared a note specifically for the Pimblett prediction: "With all due respect to Paddy, I think he's an amazing fighter. But stylistically, this is a very difficult matchup for him," Abdelaziz said.    

Is Usman Going to the UFC?

While it appears to be an excellent opportunity for Usman to switch to the UFC following a dominating PFL career, neither party has made an official announcement. 

However, Dana White sounded optimistic about the move following UFC Belgrade last weekend. When asked if he was interested in signing Khabib’s cousin, White replied with one word: “Sure,” followed by a grin.

Later, the UFC CEO doubled down on his statement by posting a smiley emoji on a video of the exchange on X. 

The undefeated PFL champion has completed his contract, but PFL still holds a 90-day exclusive negotiation window. That means no other promotion can formally begin talks until that period expires. 

However, Usman has done practically everything to prove his status in the PFL, and with Khabib leading the team, the UFC appears to be a better place for him to leave his mark on MMA history while also earning a lot of money.