PFL CEO taking ‘wait and see’ approach to new deal for undefeated champ

PFL CEO John Martin has adopted a measured "wait and see" approach regarding contract extension talks with undefeated lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov (21-0), whose current deal expires after his next title defense. Nurmagomedov is scheduled to defend his championship against fellow undefeated fighter Archie Colgan (13-0) on July 31 at UBS Arena in Long Island, New York.

Martin acknowledged that Nurmagomedov is a fantastic champion and valuable to the organization, but emphasized that the promotion will not rush into negotiations until after his upcoming bout. "This is his last fight under the agreement. We haven't engaged in any discussions with him yet," Martin told Home of Fight. "Let's get through the fight and see what he wants to do." Martin indicated that while the PFL would welcome keeping Nurmagomedov, the organization's focus remains on building a sustainable ecosystem of fighters rather than depending on individual stars.

"In our job and in our position, the brand really has to be first and foremost," Martin explained. The CEO suggested that the PFL is developing a portfolio of exciting young fighters and will attempt to retain proven stars only when it makes financial and strategic sense. Martin signaled openness to Nurmagomedov potentially departing for the UFC or elsewhere if that aligns with his goals, indicating that no single fighter, regardless of record, is indispensable to the organization's long-term strategy.