PFL Stars Weigh In On Nurmagomedov's UFC Future

Usman Nurmagomedov fights out his PFL contract Friday night, and two promotional standouts have weighed in on whether the lightweight champion will re-sign or pursue a UFC move.

Nurmagomedov defends his 155-pound title against Archie Colgan in the main event at PFL New York on July 31st. AJ McKee, who just handed Salamat Isbulaev his first pro MMA loss at PFL San Diego, told Bowks Talking Bouts he thinks Nurmagomedov has the tools to succeed wherever he goes. "I think he's got a skill set to overheld himself wherever he goes," McKee said, per BJPenn.com. "Whatever he chooses to do is upon him. I'm supportive of all fighters and testing waters."

Ditcheva Links Nurmagomedov Move To Makhachev Timeline

Dakota Ditcheva, who also competes Friday on the card, offered a more specific read on the situation. She pointed to the Nurmagomedov camp's long-term planning and suggested Usman's UFC arrival may hinge on when Islam Makhachev vacates the lightweight belt. "I think he has always been clear on like when Islam gives his belt up and he's finished that they're going to bring Usman in now," Ditcheva said. "Khabib has his plans. They say father's plan, don't they? They know exactly what they're doing."

McKee has previously shown interest in a fight with Nurmagomedov and said a champ-champ bout is still on the table for him. Ditcheva closed by wishing Nurmagomedov well regardless of where he lands. "Just good luck to him wherever he goes. He's a great athlete and a very exciting fighter."

Nurmagomedov and Colgan weigh in Thursday ahead of Friday's title fight at PFL New York.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Usman Nurmagomedov to UFC? PFL elites sound off