Islam Makhachev believes the time has come for Usman Nurmagomedov to test himself against the world’s best in the UFC.
Speaking with MMA Junkie following Nurmagomedov’s emphatic first-round knockout of Archie Colgan at PFL New York, the reigning UFC welterweight champion praised his longtime training partner’s all-around skill set and urged him to make the jump to MMA’s premier promotion. Makhachev said:
“I think it’s good time for Usman to jump to real jungle (UFC)… Usman have good style, you know, he have good wrestling, he can defend wrestling, but his kicks, his punching so fast.”
Check out Islam Makhachev’s comments below:
The comments come at a pivotal moment in Nurmagomedov’s career. The undefeated Dagestani successfully defended his PFL lightweight title by stopping the previously unbeaten Colgan in the opening round, delivering one of the biggest statements of his career. The victory also marked the final fight of his PFL contract, making him one of the most sought-after free agents in the sport.
Islam Makhachev Sees UFC Success in Umar Nurmagomedov’s Future
Usman Nurmagomedov has long been regarded as one of the world’s elite lightweight talents outside the UFC. Carrying the famous Nurmagomedov surname, the 28-year-old has carved out his own legacy through an undefeated professional record, combining elite wrestling with sharp kickboxing, excellent distance management, and rapidly improving boxing.
His performance against Colgan showcased that evolution. Rather than relying solely on his grappling pedigree, Nurmagomedov overwhelmed the American with precise striking before securing a first-round finish, reinforcing his status as one of the division’s most complete fighters.
Islam Makhachev, who has trained alongside Nurmagomedov for years under the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s system, believes those skills would translate seamlessly to the UFC. He specifically highlighted Usman’s ability to dictate wrestling exchanges while possessing explosive striking that separates him from many grapplers in the lightweight division.
A move to the UFC would instantly reshape one of the promotion’s deepest weight classes. Potential matchups against contenders such as Arman Tsarukyan, Paddy Pimblett, Charles Oliveira, Ilia Topuria, or even a future title opportunity would generate immediate intrigue.
For now, Nurmagomedov’s future remains undecided as he enters free agency. However, with his PFL contract complete and one of the UFC’s biggest champions publicly encouraging the move, speculation surrounding his next destination is only expected to intensify.
If Makhachev gets his wish, fans may soon see one of the sport’s most accomplished champions step into what he calls the “real jungle” of mixed martial arts.
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