Islam Makhachev not Fully Confident About Usman Nurmagomedov Joining the UFC

Lots of UFC fans have already started pitching their choices for Usman Nurmagomedov's debut opponent. But Islam Makhachev doesn't feel absolutely sure about Nurmagomedov signing with the UFC. Still, his words shouldn't dishearten the ones awaiting Nurmagomedov's debut.

Islam Makhachev Reveals Usman Nurmagomedov’s Chances of Joining the UFC

The rumors about Nurmagomedov's entry into the UFC have been flying around since the beginning of August after he completed his tenure in the PFL and became a free agent. The former PFL lightweight champion's revelation about rejecting a $2 million contract from the organisation, strenghtened the rumors even more.

Additionally, UFC CEO Dana White also added fuel to the fire by answering "Sure" to a question amid a press conference about signing Nurmagomedov. However, there has been no confirmed news about Nurmagomedov inking a UFC contract to date.

Makhachev recently assessed the scenario of Nurmagomedov's UFC joining and opined that there are "90%" chances of its materialization. During his interview with Match TV, Makhachev gave a strong reason behind personally desiring Nurmagomedov's entry into the UFC.

He said, "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."

Islam Makhachev dice que hay un 90% de probabilidad de que Usman Nurmagomedov acabe firmando con la UFC

- Es el movimiento perfecto para él, necesita demostrar que es el mejor del mundo, podría enfrentarse a un rival del top 10 y ganarse pronto una oportunidad por el título.… pic.twitter.com/T9RBSYxMgH

— Pelunaton (@pelunaton) September 9, 2026

The reigning welterweight champion listed another factor behind his wish, saying, "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."

It's pertinent to note that Dana White's "sure" about wanting Nurmagomedov in the UFC came before the Dagestani's controversial act of jumping the cage at UFC Shanghai and almost hitting Song Yadong with an elbow. White addressed Nurmagomedov's act by saying, "He definitely did " at the post-event press conference.

Currently, it cannot be said if the UFC will take away Nurmagomedov's chance to join the promotion due to his controversial act. But Makhachev's comments suggest that the former PFL lightweight champion will most probably ink a UFC contract and enter the octagon.