Makhachev Urges 27-0 Usman Nurmagomedov to Join UFC Lightweight Division
Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Aug 5
Makhachev Urges 27-0 Usman Nurmagomedov to Join UFC Lightweight Division
3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Aug 5
Summary
Islam Makhachev said now is the right time for Usman Nurmagomedov to leave PFL and enter the UFC's "real jungle" at lightweight after his latest win in New York.
Makhachev argued Usman has outgrown his current options, saying he sees no compelling opponents for him in PFL but many strong matchups in the UFC where he could develop faster.
The UFC champion praised Usman's style as well-rounded and explosive, saying his teammate can face anyone from the top 10 and even named Ilia Topuria and Arman Tsarukyan as viable tests.
That move would fit a broader goal for their camp: extending the Nurmagomedov-Makhachev lineage at lightweight, a plan Makhachev said has long been a team dream.