Umar Nurmagomedov On Brother Usman's Potential

Umar Nurmagomedov believes his brother Usman can compete with any lightweight on the planet, including the sport's elite champions and contenders.

The UFC bantamweight contender told MMA Junkie that his brother, currently competing under the PFL banner, belongs in the conversation with the best 155-pounders in mixed martial arts. "He's an amazing fighter, and I'm a huge fan of his," Umar said, as reported by BJ Penn. "I like how he spars, how he works, how he does everything as a professional. And even in the cage, he shows he's a high-level fighter. I think he can be competitive with anybody in the world."

Usman Nurmagomedov Compared To UFC Elite

Umar dismissed suggestions that fighters outside the UFC operate at a lower standard, pointing to Alexandr Shabliy as an example of tough competition in other organisations. He said his brother could hold his own against Justin Gaethje, Ilia Topuria, Arman Tsarukyan, Mauricio Ruffy, and anyone else in the division.

When pressed on whether Usman should join the UFC, Umar declined to take a firm position, per MMA Junkie. "I don't want to go ahead where I want to see him, but he has time to talk with both sides, and they're going to figure it out," he said. "It's his life. I can give him advice, but he has to make the decision."

Usman's next career move remains unclear. PFL and UFC talks are reportedly ongoing.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Usman Nurmagomedov can compete with anyone in the world, says his brother