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Usman Nurmagomedov, the reigning Bellator lightweight champion, is already looking ahead to his next big career move, with plans to join the UFC. In a recent vlog by Gorilla Fighting, the undefeated Dagestani (18-0-1) revealed his ambitions to eventually compete in the UFC, and how Islam Makhachev’s career will influence his timing.
Nurmagomedov, 26, has steadily made a name for himself in Bellator, dominating the lightweight division with notable victories over former champions Benson Henderson, Patricky 'Pitbull' Freire, and Alexandr Shabliy. Under the mentorship of his cousin, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and renowned AKA coach Javier Mendez, he has developed into one of the most promising prospects in the sport. However, despite his current success in Bellator, Nurmagomedov has his eyes set on the UFC for the next chapter of his career.
During the interview, Nurmagomedov outlined his plan to wait until UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, a close friend and teammate, finishes his reign in the division before making the transition.
“I’m waiting for Islam [Makhachev] to finish his career and then I will [go to the UFC],” he explained.
He added that he envisions making the move at the age of 28 and continuing his career until he is 32. This calculated approach reflects Nurmagomedov’s dedication to his craft and his belief that his prime years are still ahead of him. By waiting for Makhachev to step aside, Nurmagomedov hopes to avoid any conflict with his teammate while ensuring he is fully prepared to take on the UFC’s lightweight elite.
Fans of MMA are eager to see how Nurmagomedov’s journey unfolds, and his potential UFC debut could be one of the most highly anticipated moves in recent years.
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