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Islam Makhachev Says Usman Nurmagomedov Could Get Half the Purse in UFC but Might Still Receive an Offer He Cannot Refuse
The UFC lightweight champion stated that Nurmagomedov would receive roughly half his current PFL purse if he signs with the UFC. Nurmagomedov is scheduled to defend his PFL lightweight title on July 31.
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UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev said teammate Usman Nurmagomedov would receive about half the purse he earns in the PFL if he moves to the UFC. Makhachev made the comments to Adam Zubayraev, according to Sherdog. Nurmagomedov holds a 20-1 professional record and is scheduled to defend his PFL lightweight title against Archie Colgan on July 31 at UBS Arena in Long Island.
His current PFL contract expires after that bout. Makhachev said the UFC does not like paying high purses. "If Usman signs, I think he gets half the purse he gets in PFL," he said. The champion suggested Nurmagomedov could complete one more PFL contract of three additional fights before considering a move.
"If he works out one more contract [in PFL], three more fights, he won't be late for anything," Makhachev said. "Let the UFC make him an offer he can't refuse. " Makhachev also said Nurmagomedov needs tougher opponents to reach his full potential.
"Looking at the opponents, I'd say Usman should make the move," he said. "To fully realize his potential, he needs tougher opponents. " Nurmagomedov's July 31 bout at PFL New York will determine whether he enters free agency as a reigning champion.
