Martin Denies Nurmagomedov Left PFL

PFL CEO John Martin shot down reports that lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov has left for the UFC.

Nurmagomedov finished Archie Colgan in the first round at PFL New York last month, completing the final fight on his current deal. Since then, speculation has run wild that the undefeated Dagestani would sign with the UFC — speculation that intensified when UFC 330 broadcast cameras showed him in the crowd and identified him as Bellator's final lightweight champion.

PFL In Exclusive Negotiating Window With Nurmagomedov

Martin told Ariel Helwani that the UFC has not made an offer and cannot legally do so during PFL's exclusive negotiating period. "There is so much misinformation," Martin said, per MMA Mania. "We're putting together an offer, and we're going to sit down and talk with them. I think our offer will be competitive. It's really up to him."

The CEO noted the shift in perception around Nurmagomedov's standing in the sport. "I started saying a year ago, 'This guy is one of the best lightweightsin the world,' and I think people were almost mocking me," Martin said. "Now I find it kind of ironic that he is being paraded around like he's the salvation of mixed martial arts."

Nurmagomedov has headlined all four PFL cards since the promotion absorbed Bellator in 2024. His manager has reportedly said the fighter will not accept a pay cut to move to the UFC. The 22-0-1 champion's sole non-win came when a 2023 victory over Brent Primus was overturned to a no contest after a failed test for what his team called a prescribed medication.

PFL's exclusive window gives Martin time to counter before the UFC can formally enter negotiations ahead of the promotion's planned 2027 merger with MVP.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — PFL CEO John Martin denies Usman Nurmagomedov has left organization: ‘So much misinformation’