Dana White may not have made an official announcement, but his latest comments suggest Usman Nurmagomedov’s move to the UFC is becoming increasingly inevitable. Following UFC Fight Night in Serbia, White didn’t reveal many details when asked about signing the undefeated PFL lightweight champion. Instead, he offered a big smile and one simple word.
“Sure.”
That was all fans needed to fuel speculation that Nurmagomedov’s days outside the UFC are numbered. The comments came just days after the PFL announced its merger with Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions. While the deal was largely viewed as a positive step for the growth of mixed martial arts, it also reignited questions surrounding the future of one of the sport’s biggest unsigned stars.
Nurmagomedov further strengthened his case as one of the world’s elite lightweights by defending his title against previously unbeaten Archie Colgan at PFL New York. The fight itself was one-sided, but the post-fight celebration generated just as much attention.
As Nurmagomedov celebrated his victory, an awkward moment unfolded between Jake Paul and coach Khabib Nurmagomedov, with both appearing ready to place the championship belt around the undefeated champion’s waist. Paul ultimately stepped aside, allowing Khabib to present the belt to his longtime teammate. The tension only added to the growing speculation surrounding Nurmagomedov’s future.
Speaking with reporters afterward, the undefeated champion didn’t mince words when discussing Paul, calling him “not a real fighter” while making it clear he wants to continue building his legacy elsewhere. If that destination is the UFC, the matchmaking possibilities are endless.
A showdown with Max Holloway could make sense if the former featherweight champion returns after taking time away following his bizarre, short-lived fight with Conor McGregor, which ended seconds after McGregor suffered an injury.
Paddy Pimblett would also be an intriguing option after his dominant first-round submission victory over Benoît Saint Denis. Then there’s the dream matchup with former two-division champion Ilia Topuria, a fighter Nurmagomedov has openly criticized in recent months.
For now, White’s comments remain just that—comments. No contract has been signed, and no official announcement has been made. Whether the UFC fast-tracks him into a title eliminator or eases him into the division with a marquee matchup, Nurmagomedov’s arrival would instantly shake up one of the already deepest weight classes in mixed martial arts. Only one thing is for sure, Usman Nurmagomedov’s future is very bright no matter where he lands.
