"PFL Pay Him Good Money": Islam Makhachev Weighs Usman Nurmagomedov’s Big UFC Decision
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Islam Makhachev weighed in on his teammate Usman Nurmagomedov's highly anticipated decision of whether he should join the UFC or stay with the PFL.
When an elite fighter hits free agency with an unblemished record, the entire combat sports landscape takes notice. Undefeated lightweight king Usman Nurmagomedov recently wrapped up his contract with Professional Fighters League after a dominant performance, sparking a massive debate over his next home. Current Ultimate Fighting Championship star Islam Makhachev weighed in on his teammate's situation, balancing the cold reality of big paychecks with the desire for elite competition.
Speaking in a recent sit-down with MMA Junkie, Makhachev admitted that staying with PFL has obvious financial perks, but insisted that the real test lies elsewhere.
“PFL ready to pay him good money, but I don't know UFC how much they want to pay him, you know? But I feel in PFL he don't have any new names—but in my opinion, it's good time for him to jump to the UFC,” Makhachev said.
Usman Nurmagomedov: Leaving the Nest for the UFC Jungle
Makhachev’s advice comes at a pivotal turning point for Team Abdulmanap. Nurmagomedov boasts a pristine 22-0 record and has cleared out most of the top-tier competition placed in front of him. Makhachev believes that jumping to the UFC would allow the young star to test his skills against world-class contenders, calling it a move into the "real jungle."
Beyond individual legacy, Makhachev noted that Nurmagomedov moving on would open doors for other teammates currently competing in PFL's lightweight division. With three other stablemates trying to make their mark, clearing out the top spot gives the rest of the crew room to chase their own title runs.
Meanwhile, Makhachev has his own business to handle inside the Octagon. The Dagestani powerhouse is preparing to defend his welterweight crown against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330, looking to extend his legendary winning streak. Statistically, Makhachev's 28-1 record places him alongside all-time greats like Anderson Silva in the UFC history books.
Whether Nurmagomedov decides to chase the top-dollar contracts in PFL or jump ship for UFC gold is anybody's guess right now. But as Makhachev pointed out, when you have cleared out your current division and conquered every challenge in front of you, the timing for a step up in competition couldn't be better.
