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Manager seeks matchup between Usman Nurmagomedov and Ilia Topuria

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 8, 2026, 12:30 AM

Last updated Aug 8, 2026

Manager seeks matchup between Usman Nurmagomedov and Ilia Topuria

Summary

Usman Nurmagomedov's manager, Ali Abdelaziz, is advocating for a fight between Nurmagomedov and former UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria if Nurmagomedov joins UFC. Nurmagomedov recently became a free agent after completing his PFL contract. At 22-0, he has a significant following, amplified by his connection to Khabib Nurmagomedov. Topuria recently lost his title to Justin Gaethje, and Abdelaziz suggests there is existing animosity that could make this matchup appealing to UFC matchmakers.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Usman Nurmagomedov is a free agent after his PFL contract ended.
•Ali Abdelaziz wants Nurmagomedov's first UFC fight to be against Ilia Topuria.
•Topuria recently lost the UFC lightweight title to Justin Gaethje.
•A history of rivalry exists between Nurmagomedov and Topuria.

Latest Updates

12:30 AMYahoo Sports — Manager calls for matchup between Usman Nurmagomedov and Ilia Topuria

What they're saying

"
If Usman Nurmagomedov signs with Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) then his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, is hoping to land the Professional Fighters League (PFL) lightweight champion one of the biggest matchups in the sport. In case you didn’t know, Nurmagomedov is officially a free agent after fighting out his PFL contract one week ago (watch HERE). […]
— Yahoo Sports

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