Makhachev warns UFC move would halve Nurmagomedov's PFL salary

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has warned that teammate Usman Nurmagomedov would likely see his purse cut in half if he leaves the Professional Fighters League for the UFC, even as he argues the move is necessary for Nurmagomedov to fulfil his potential.

Nurmagomedov (20-1) is widely regarded as one of the world’s best lightweights regardless of promotion, but his immediate future will be settled at PFL New York on July 31 at UBS Arena in Long Island, where he defends his PFL lightweight title against Archie Colgan. That bout is expected to be the final fight on his current PFL contract, fuelling speculation about a potential UFC move.

Makhachev (28-1) is unambiguous about where Nurmagomedov should ultimately compete, but equally blunt about the financial reality. “Looking at the opponents, I’d say Usman should make the move,” Makhachev told Adam Zubayraev. “To fully realize his potential, he needs tougher opponents. They push you to grow. I think Usman still has room to improve.”

The pay gap, however, is a serious obstacle. “In PFL they pay much more. The UFC doesn’t like paying that much. If Usman signs, I think he gets half the purse he gets in PFL,” Makhachev said.

Rather than urging his teammate to rush a decision, Makhachev suggested Nurmagomedov has the luxury of time. One more PFL contract — roughly three fights — would not, in his view, cost Nurmagomedov anything in terms of legacy-building, provided the UFC eventually tables the right offer. “If he works out one more contract, three more fights, he won’t be late for anything. Let the UFC make him an offer he can’t refuse. But if they offer a small purse, what’s the point of going?”

The comments offer a rare candid look at the financial calculations that shape fighter movement between the sport’s major promotions. For Nurmagomedov, the decision hinges on whether the UFC is willing to meet a price point that reflects his standing as a dominant champion — something Makhachev, for now, is not convinced they will.