Makhachev urges Nurmagomedov to join UFC despite lower pay

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev has publicly advised his teammate, undefeated PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov, to consider a move to the UFC to test himself against the world's best, even if it means accepting a significant pay cut. Makhachev's comments come as Nurmagomedov approaches free agency, with his current PFL contract set to expire after a title defense scheduled for July 31.

Nurmagomedov is slated to face Archie Colgan at PFL New York on July 31 at the UBS Arena in Long Island, New York. A victory would mark his second successful title defense, following a submission win over Alfie Davis in February 2026 that extended his professional record to 21-0. With his contract concluding after this bout, speculation has intensified about whether the highly regarded lightweight will remain with the PFL or join the UFC.

In an interview, Makhachev argued that the sporting merit of facing the UFC's deeper roster of contenders should be a primary consideration. He stated that to fully realize his potential, Nurmagomedov needs tougher opponents who will push him to grow, and that the UFC offers that level of competition. However, Makhachev was candid about the...