Islam Makhachev advises Usman Nurmagomedov to take his time ahead of potential UFC move

UFC welterweight champ Islam Makhachev wants Usman Nurmagomedov to consider re-signing with the PFL before pondering a UFC move.

PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov, the cousin of UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, is set to become a free agent later this year with one more fight on his current contract. While the PFL is expected to make Nurmagomedov a lucrative offer to extend his deal, he could potentially be a top UFC target when his free agency officially kicks off.

Nurmagomedov, 27, is on the cusp of beginning his physical prime as he entertains a potential move to the UFC Octagon. During his superstardom, he’s trained with the likes of Islam Makhachev, Belal Muhammad, and others under Khabib’s tutelage.

While Nurmagomedov is widely considered one of the greatest lightweights on the planet, Makhachev believes his superstar teammate shouldn’t rush a potential move to the UFC.

Islam Makhachev: Usman Nurmagomedov should ‘take his time’ with UFC move

In a recent interview with Ushatayka, Makhachev weighed in on Nurmagomedov’s impending free agency.

“Honestly, I don’t think Usman is any worse than anyone (in the UFC),” Makhachev said.

“He would give very hard rounds to any of them. We’ve been training together for so many years, and I know his true potential. He’s still young and has plenty of time ahead of him. If you ask me, I think he is ready, but let him take his time.

“As long as his contract expires within a year, it will be the perfect time (to move to the UFC).” (h/t MMA Junkie)

Nurmagomedov has traded barbs on social media with undisputed UFC lightweight champ Ilia Topuria in recent months. A potential matchup could come to fruition once Topuria returns to action following a lengthy hiatus.

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