Top candidates for Usman Nurmagomedov’s opponent in potential UFC debut
· Yahoo Sports
The PFL-MVP merger was huge news and brings some optimism to the future of MMA outside of the UFC. That could change quickly, though, as Usman Nurmagomedov could be on the move.
Usman Nurmagomedov is the undefeated lightweight champion of the PFL and the cousin of UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov.
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The now-free agent fought his last fight under his PFL contract. Now Usman Nurmagomedov is open to business for any promotion he sees fit. It’s a two-horse race between the PFL and the UFC.
For the betterment of the sport, Nurmagomedov joining the UFC is the way to go, adding another supreme talent to an already-stacked division.
It also works because now that Islam Makhachev is the welterweight champion, there are no teammates in Nurmagomedov’s way of fighting for the UFC lightweight title.
UFC President Dana White even commented on the new free agent. Oscar Willis of The Mac Life asked White if he’d be interested in signing Nurmagomedov, and with a grin on his face, White said, “Sure.”
With a potential huge acquisition for the UFC, there’s only one question. Whom would Nurmagomedov fight in his debut?
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Usman Nurmagomedov has options for UFC debut
Apr 13, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Arman Tsarukyan (blue gloves) fights Charles Oliveira (red gloves) during UFC 300 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
There’s no reason to give Nurmagomedov tune-up fights. He’s a title contender as soon as he signs on the dotted line. And there are multiple opponents who make sense.
Nurmagomedov’s UFC debut should be against the loser of the rumored Charles Oliveira-Arman Tsarukyan matchup. It’s widely believed that the winner of that potential fight will face Justin Gaethje for the lightweight title.
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Nurmagomedov shouldn’t fight more than twice before fighting for the lightweight title. A win over either Oliveira or Tsarukyan gives him a clear path to the title and for another Nurmagomedov to etch his name in UFC history.
Another set of opponents that make sense would be the loser of a potential Ilia Topuria vs Paddy Pimblett fight.
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