Islam Makhachev Predicts Usman Nurmagomedov's UFC Signing
Usman Nurmagomedov, the reigning PFL lightweight champion, appears to be on the verge of joining the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). After his contract with the Professional Fighters League expired, Nurmagomedov has become the top free agent in mixed martial arts.
He reportedly turned down a $2 million re-signing offer from the PFL, fueling speculation about a move to the UFC, the organization where his cousin and UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov achieved legendary status.
UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, a close teammate of Usman, recently shared his thoughts on Nurmagomedov's future. In an interview with Match TV, Makhachev stated that he believes there is a "90 percent chance" of Usman signing with the UFC.
"It’s the perfect move for him; he needs to prove he’s the best in the world," Makhachev explained. "He could face a top-10 rival and soon earn a title shot. 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."
While the PFL could still present a compelling offer to retain Nurmagomedov, Makhachev's confidence suggests that a deal with the UFC is highly probable.
As of now, Nurmagomedov remains a free agent, but a UFC signing could be imminent. He was recently seen in the corner of his teammate Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC Shanghai.
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