Jake Paul has heaped praise on Usman Nurmagomedov following the undefeated champion’s spectacular first-round knockout victory over Archie Colgan, boldly claiming the Bellator lightweight titleholder is not only the best fighter outside the UFC, but the best lightweight in the world.
Speaking in a video shared by FREAK.MMA on X, Paul lauded Nurmagomedov’s all-around skill set and even predicted a legendary future for the Dagestani star.
“Super talented. Future GOAT of this whole division. It’s no longer like UFC fighters are the best in the world. He’s the best in the world. So, they’ve got to come see this guy.”
Check out Jake Paul’s comments about Usman Nurmagomedov below:
Paul’s comments came immediately after Nurmagomedov delivered one of the most emphatic performances of his career. The 27-year-old stopped the previously unbeaten Colgan on the night with a devastating first-round knockout to successfully defend his Bellator lightweight championship.
The victory was particularly significant as it marked the final fight of Nurmagomedov’s current contract with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), immediately fueling speculation over his future.
Jake Paul hopes PFL retains its biggest lightweight star
Jake Paul’s glowing endorsement also comes with understandable context. As one of PFL’s highest-profile investors and ambassadors, he has a vested interest in seeing one of the promotion’s biggest stars remain on its roster rather than testing free agency or making a move to the UFC.
Keeping Nurmagomedov would be a major boost for the organization, especially following the PFL’s recent merger with Mixed Martial Arts Ventures (MVP), the promotion co-founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian. The partnership is designed to expand PFL’s global reach, create new premium events, and strengthen its position as the UFC’s biggest competitor.
Losing an undefeated champion widely regarded as one of the world’s elite lightweights would represent a significant setback at a time when the promotion is looking to build momentum.
Nurmagomedov has now extended his unbeaten professional record while further strengthening his case as one of the top pound-for-pound fighters competing outside the UFC. His dominant wrestling, elite striking, and composure under pressure have consistently drawn comparisons with fellow Dagestani greats such as Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev.
Whether Nurmagomedov remains with the PFL under a new deal or explores opportunities elsewhere remains one of the biggest questions in MMA. For Jake Paul, however, there is little debate about the champion’s ability, as he believes Usman Nurmagomedov has already established himself as the best lightweight on the planet.
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