Khabib declares Usman Nurmagomedov wouldn’t have reached the UFC at 21

Khabib Nurmagomedov has credited the Professional Fighters League with transforming his cousin Usman Nurmagomedov into one of the most coveted free agents in mixed martial arts today. Speaking on the "Smol Talk" podcast, the UFC Hall of Famer stated that without the PFL's platform, Usman would never have reached the UFC roster at age 21.

Usman joined Bellator in 2021 with an 11-0 record—the same promotion that was later acquired by the PFL—and has since extended his undefeated streak to 21-0 with one no-contest. Khabib acknowledged that being his cousin benefited Usman's initial popularity, but emphasized that Usman has proven himself an elite world-class fighter in his own right. "Without the PFL, who would have known Usman?" Khabib said. "They gave him a base, the roots, the opportunity to grow. The PFL made him a star."

Usman currently holds the PFL lightweight title and will defend it against Archie Colgan on July 31 at UBS Arena in Long Island, New York. His contract expires following that bout, and while a UFC move has been rumored, nothing is confirmed. Khabib declined to speculate on Usman's immediate future, citing respect for the PFL. Usman's brother, Umar Nurmagomedov, is already competing in the UFC and ranks among the top bantamweights.