One of the top fighters outside the UFC could hit free agency by the end of next year.
Early 2026 is set to focus on Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett’s fight for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324, with Ilia Topuria still sidelined.
But that will not be the only notable title fight at lightweight to start next year. Usman Nurmagomedov, who claimed the PFL belt in October, is scheduled to make his first title defence soon after.
After a second win over Paul Hughes, Nurmagomedov will now face Alfie Davis at a PFL event in Dubai on February 7.
There has been plenty of talk about how Usman would match up against some of the UFC’s best lightweights, and the organisation might not have to wait long for an opportunity to bring another member of the Nurmagomedov family into their ranks.
PFL contract coming to an end for Usman Nurmagomedov
There was a time when Khabib Nurmagomedov was the reigning lightweight champion of the UFC. Back then, coach Javier Mendez and other voices around him suggested Usman would follow in his footsteps.
With 2026 on the horizon, there is already speculation growing that Dana White could be planning a move for Khabib Nurmagomedov’s cousin.
Speaking to MMA Junkie last Thursday, Usman opened up on his future.
“I know it’s going to be only two fights (in 2026) – beginning and end of the year,” he began by saying.
“I have on the contract two more fights and I think after this fight (against Davis), I think we’re going to speak about the future. We’ll see how interested they’re going to be in me.
“For me, in PFL, everything is good. I’m champion and they have a lot of contenders who can grow there.
“PFL is good. You can make history here, too. The question is what are they going to give me? We’ll see.”
Even though he seems happy where he is, Nurmagomedov made it clear that any decision about his future will come down to what his management team advises.
If a UFC switch does become an option, Ali Abdelaziz says one thing must happen first before any discussions go ahead.
Usman Nurmagomedov will not accept a pay cut to join the UFC, says Ali Abdelaziz
If there is still uncertainty surrounding Nurmagomedov’s next move heading into his last PFL fight in late 2026, the UFC might have an opening to add another top name to their roster.
But that will only be possible if the organisation can match what he is currently earning in the PFL. Abdelaziz made it clear that just like with Kayla Harrison, a pay cut is not even on the table.
“He makes a lot of money in PFL, they treat him so well and he’s rich. At the end of the day, it’s a business. When his contract is finished, we’re always going to sit down with the promotion,” Abdelaziz said to MMA Junkie.
“For Usman to come here (to the UFC), everybody have to be happy. I want to make sure the PFL’s happy. And he has to be paid. He’s not going to take a pay cut to come to the UFC. Kayla didn’t take a pay cut for the UFC.”
Should Usman find his way onto MMA’s grandest stage, Abdelaziz is confident about what lies ahead.
“You’re going to have another Nurmagomedov become a champion,” he stated.
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