Islam Makhachev Makes Case for Usman Nurmagomedov’s UFC Move – ‘He Still Has Room To Improve’
PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov is fast approaching one of the biggest decisions of his career. The undefeated Dagestani is set to make his final appearance under his current contract when he takes on Archie Colgan in July, leaving his future with the promotion hanging in the balance.
With free agency looming, speculation over Nurmagomedov's next move has only intensified. Will the 28-year-old remain with the PFL, where lucrative paydays await, or test himself against the UFC's creme de la creme at Lightweight?
If Islam Makhachev has his way, the answer is simple. The UFC's pound-for-pound king believes his close friend still has untapped potential and needs tougher opposition to fully realize it.
Islam Makhachev Believes Tougher Competition Is Key to Usman Nurmagomedov’s Growth
Boasting an unblemished 21-0 record with eight knockouts and seven submissions, Usman Nurmagomedov has emerged as arguably the PFL's biggest homegrown star. Then there is the weight of his surname, one synonymous with combat sports greatness, having already produced champions such as Khabib Nurmagomedov and Makhachev.
On July 31, the undefeated Dagestani will defend his lightweight title against Archie Colgan at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. However, the bout carries added significance, as it will mark the final fight on his current PFL deal. Nurmagomedov himself has admitted that the promotion has yet to approach him regarding an extension, although both sides appear interested in continuing their relationship.
As speculation surrounding his future intensifies, Makhachev offered a candid assessment of what he believes would best serve his longtime teammate's career.
"Looking at the opponents, I'd say Usman should make the move," Makhachev told Red Corner MMA's Adam Zubayraev.
Nurmagomedov has gone 3-0 under the PFL banner, including two victories over Paul Hughes and another against Alfie "The Axe Man" Davis. While acknowledging the financial benefits of staying put, Makhachev believes greater challenges are necessary for the 27-year-old to maximize his potential.
"To fully realize his potential, he needs tougher opponents; they push you to grow. I think Usman still has room to improve," the Welterweight champ added.
The path has already been charted by his older brother, Umar Nurmagomedov, who rattled off an impressive run in the UFC before suffering his first professional defeat at the hands of Merab Dvalishvili. Despite the setback, Umar quickly rebounded with consecutive victories against Mario Bautista last year and Deiveson Figueiredo earlier this year.
Whether Usman chooses to follow a similar route remains to be seen. Fortunately for him, Makhachev also has a clear opinion on how to balance legacy and lucrative paydays.
Makhachev Urges Patience; Weighs PFL Money Against UFC Opportunity
That said, Makhachev understands why Nurmagomedov may not be in a rush to trade the PFL cage for the UFC Octagon. The 34-year-old acknowledged that the PFL has shown a greater willingness to financially reward its stars, something he believes the UFC may struggle to match.
"I don't know how to weigh it; in PFL, they pay much more. The UFC doesn't like paying that much. If Usman signs, I think half the purse he gets in PFL, the UFC won't pay that," Makhachev said.
The Dagestani nevertheless suggested there is no urgency for his teammate to jump ship immediately. Instead, he believes Nurmagomedov could maximize his earnings by seeing out another PFL deal before eventually testing himself against the UFC's elite.
"I think there's still time. If he works out one more contract, three fights. He won't be late for anything. Well, let the UFC make him an offer he can't refuse. I think it's possible. But if they offer a small purse, what's the point of going?" he added.
Makhachev's assessment reflects a long-standing reality within MMA. While the UFC remains the sport's premier destination from a prestige and legacy standpoint, rival promotions like PFL and One FC have often been willing to outspend the market leader to retain or attract marquee talent.
