Makhachev Urges Nurmagomedov To Sign With UFC

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev wants Usman Nurmagomedov to leave PFL and sign with the UFC.

Nurmagomedov holds the PFL lightweight title and is a pending free agent. The UFC has expressed interest in signing him, and Makhachev thinks his teammate is ready for the promotion's top competition. "I think it's good time for Usman to jump to real jungle and give the chance to other guys from our team," Makhachev told MMA Junkie. "We have three more guys in PFL who are fighting at lightweight."

Makhachev On Nurmagomedov's UFC Prospects

Makhachev praised Nurmagomedov's speed and versatility, noting his wrestling, takedown defense, and striking ability. If Nurmagomedov joins the UFC, he would likely face a top-ranked lightweight immediately. Makhachev believes his training partner can handle anyone in the division, including former opponents like Arman Tsarukyan. "Lightweight top 10 are good fighters," Makhachev said, per BJPenn.com. "Usman can fight with anyone."

Makhachev defends his welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 on August 15. He won the belt with a decision over Jack Della Maddalena and could break Anderson Silva's UFC record with his 17th consecutive win.

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• BJPenn — Islam Makhachev urges Usman Nurmagomedov to ‘jump to real jungle’ and sign with UFC