The undefeated Russian fighter and Bellator lightweight champion (18-0) has spoken about a potential move to the UFC, as reported by Vesti.kz.
Usman NurmagomedovNurmagomedov admitted that he plans to transition to the largest promotion and compete for the title. However, he wants to do this only after his compatriot - the current UFC lightweight champion (27-1) - retires from his career.
Islam Makhachev"I’m waiting for him (Islam) to finish, to be honest. I think that if we jump into the UFC at 28 (years old), it would be great. I’m currently 26. I still have two years to grow and strengthen. At 28, I can jump in and compete until I’m 32-34 years old," Nurmagomedov Jr. stated in an interview with Gorilla Energy.
Nurmagomedov last entered the cage against Alexander Shabliy at the Bellator Champions Series in San Diego. This fight went the full distance and concluded in favor of Usman by unanimous decision.
Thus, Nurmagomedov defended his Bellator title for the second time. This match was his first after a six-month suspension due to a positive doping test. Following the victory, the belt was presented to the Russian by Khabib Nurmagomedov - his cousin and cornerman, a former UFC champion.