Archie Colgan plans to find out if Usman Nurmagomedov is really that great or not: ‘July 31, we’ll have those answers’

Archie Colgan finally has his shot at PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov, facing him in the main event of PFL New York on July 31st. The undefeated Colgan, who trains alongside UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje at their shared camp, has been pursuing this opportunity since Nurmagomedov first claimed the belt over two and a half years ago in Bellator—a goal that remained unchanged even after the promotion was acquired and rebranded as the PFL.

Colgan's frustration at watching other contenders receive title shots before him is now channeled into preparation for the fight. "The frustrations are real," he said, "but now it's time." With four years of collegiate wrestling at Wyoming competing in the Big 12 conference, Colgan brings serious grappling credentials to a fight many expect to hinge on wrestling. He trains with other elite wrestlers including former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, giving him world-class preparation for what could be a pivotal clash.

Much of the buildup has centered on two questions: whether Nurmagomedov can handle another high-level wrestler, and whether this will be his final PFL fight before his contract expires, potentially opening the door to a UFC move. Colgan views the matchup as a complete striking and grappling test. "He's very well-rounded with good striking and distance management," Colgan said, "but it's always been offense, offense, offense without having to consider the defense to it. July 31, we'll have those answers."

Colgan believes a dominant win would elevate the entire PFL lightweight division, sending a message that elite competition exists outside the UFC. "It goes to show that the PFL is very legitimate and the lightweight class here is high caliber," he said. "It's not just one guy up there—it's a roster of very talented guys."