Islam Makhachev discusses Usman Nurmagomedov's potential UFC move over pay concerns
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 21, 2026, 2:55 PM
Last updated Jun 21, 2026
Islam Makhachev commented on Usman Nurmagomedov's potential move to the UFC, emphasizing doubts about the promotion's willingness to match Nurmagomedov's earnings in the PFL. As Nurmagomedov prepares to defend his PFL lightweight title against Archie Colgan on July 31, Makhachev pointed out that the UFC may not offer a competitive purse. Nurmagomedov's contract with PFL is nearing its end, and discussions regarding his future have not yet occurred. PFL CEO John Martin expressed a desire to retain Nurmagomedov but acknowledged that his decision will ultimately depend on the outcomes of upcoming events.
- •Usman Nurmagomedov faces Archie Colgan on July 31 in New York.
- •Nurmagomedov's PFL contract is nearly expired.
- •Islam Makhachev doubts UFC will meet Nurmagomedov's pay demands.
- •PFL CEO John Martin hopes to retain Nurmagomedov after his next fight.
- •Makhachev believes tougher opponents in the UFC would help Nurmagomedov improve.
- 4:54 PMYahoo Sports — Islam Makhachev: Usman Nurmagomedov will take pay cut by signing with UFC
- 2:55 PMYahoo Sports — Islam Makhachev says Usman Nurmagomedov could turn down the UFC over low pay
"Islam Makhachev isn’t convinced the UFC will open the chequebook to lure the PFL lightweight champion over to the Octagon. Usman Nurmagomedov has built a strong reputation as one of the top fighters outside of the UFC, and there’s been consistent talk about him making the jump across.
"Islam Makhachev believes teammate Usman Nurmagomedov will have to compromise on his salary if he moves to the UFC from the Professional Fighters League.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 21, 2026, 4:54 PMIslam Makhachev: Usman Nurmagomedov will take pay cut by signing with UFC
Islam Makhachev believes teammate Usman Nurmagomedov will have to compromise on his salary if he moves to the UFC from the Professional Fighters League.
- Yahoo SportsJun 21, 2026, 2:55 PMIslam Makhachev says Usman Nurmagomedov could turn down the UFC over low pay
Islam Makhachev isn’t convinced the UFC will open the chequebook to lure the PFL lightweight champion over to the Octagon. Usman Nurmagomedov has built a strong reputation as one of the top fighters outside of the UFC, and there’s been consistent talk about him making the jump across.
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