PFL light-weight world champion Usman Nurmagomedov will determine on his future “very quickly” after changing into a free agent, in accordance with his cousin and coach Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Russia’s Nurmagomedov knocked out American Archie Colgan in New York final week to retain his title within the closing struggle on his contract with the PFL.
The 28-year-old, who’s undefeated with 22 victories, is widely-considered one of many largest abilities outdoors the UFC and has lengthy been touted to ultimately signal with the promotion.
However the finish of his contract comes amid an thrilling new chapter for the PFL after the organisation merged with Most Worthwhile Promotions (MVP) final week.
In a press release on Instagram, Khabib praised Nurmagomedov and in contrast him to team-mate and UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, earlier than revealing negotiations round his subsequent transfer will happen “over the subsequent month”.
“Usman has proven and confirmed during the last couple of years that he’s one of the best light-weight outdoors the UFC. Not with phrases, however along with his performances,” mentioned Khabib.
“After I mentioned in 2020 that Islam was one of the best at the moment, there have been many individuals who disagreed. Imagine me guys, there are ranges to this sport.
“You will notice for yourselves what occurs subsequent. There will probably be negotiations over the subsequent month, and really quickly you will see out for yourselves which league he’ll proceed competing in.”
Nurmagomedov’s first-round knockout of Colgan was the second defence of his PFL belt and sixth in whole after the Bellator title was rebranded in 2025.
After the bout, Nurmagomedov requested MVP co-owner Jake Paul for a “bonus”, to which the American replied, “subsequent struggle when you get a knockout, I will purchase you a automobile”.
Nurmagomedov raised questions on his future within the organisation by responding, “brother let’s speak about in the present day – we do not know what is going on to occur tomorrow”.
Following the UFC’s occasion in Belgrade on Saturday, the promotion’s president Dana White replied “certain” whereas sporting a wry smile when he was requested in regards to the prospect of signing Nurmagomedov.
Paul has been a frequent critic of White and UFC fighter pay, and Nurmagomedov made reference to that within the closing phrases of his post-fight interview.
“MVP, they at all times trash speak about Dana saying he does not pay – now we’re gonna see how they’re gonna pay,” mentioned Nurmagomedov.
