2 months ago
PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov had some choice words for the UFC's top-ranked lightweights.
Nurmagomedov (22-0) is a free agent after retaining his belt with a first-round knockout out Archie Colgan at PFL New York last month. The 28-year-old is looking to either re-sign with the PFL or ink a deal with the UFC.
Nurmagomedov has beaten all of PFL's top lightweights, including Paul Hughes twice. He disagrees with the notion that the best fighters are only in the UFC, and picked apart the current rankings and matchups that have taken place in the octagon.
"There's a narrative that if you don't compete in the UFC, you're not on that high level, and I don't agree with that," Nurmagomedov told Sport24 (h/t Red Corner MMA). "Just look at the guys who are in the UFC top 10. They just keep fighting each other and maintain their top-10 spots. Benoit Saint Denis, he was 4-0 then lost to Dustin Poirier, then he lost to (Renato) Moicano, and won three times after that, and then lost in the first round within 30 seconds (vs. Pimblett), but he's still in the top five, oddly enough.
"Pimblett lost to a 37-year-old veteran, but he's the No. 1 contender now, right? Or No. 2. 17-0 Topuria, who had been praising himself as the greatest, he lost, quit on the stool, saying he wasn't going to continue. Arman (Tsarukyan), he lost to (Mateusz) Gamrot, he lost to Islam (Makhachef). He is just waiting it out, fighting once a year and saying he's the best fighter in the world. While he fought twice, I defended my **** le four times. The UFC PR machine is very powerful. The brand is very solid, but I wouldn't say they all put on such great fights."
#pimblett #twice
Nurmagomedov (22-0) is a free agent after retaining his belt with a first-round knockout out Archie Colgan at PFL New York last month. The 28-year-old is looking to either re-sign with the PFL or ink a deal with the UFC.
Nurmagomedov has beaten all of PFL's top lightweights, including Paul Hughes twice. He disagrees with the notion that the best fighters are only in the UFC, and picked apart the current rankings and matchups that have taken place in the octagon.
"There's a narrative that if you don't compete in the UFC, you're not on that high level, and I don't agree with that," Nurmagomedov told Sport24 (h/t Red Corner MMA). "Just look at the guys who are in the UFC top 10. They just keep fighting each other and maintain their top-10 spots. Benoit Saint Denis, he was 4-0 then lost to Dustin Poirier, then he lost to (Renato) Moicano, and won three times after that, and then lost in the first round within 30 seconds (vs. Pimblett), but he's still in the top five, oddly enough.
"Pimblett lost to a 37-year-old veteran, but he's the No. 1 contender now, right? Or No. 2. 17-0 Topuria, who had been praising himself as the greatest, he lost, quit on the stool, saying he wasn't going to continue. Arman (Tsarukyan), he lost to (Mateusz) Gamrot, he lost to Islam (Makhachef). He is just waiting it out, fighting once a year and saying he's the best fighter in the world. While he fought twice, I defended my **** le four times. The UFC PR machine is very powerful. The brand is very solid, but I wouldn't say they all put on such great fights."
#pimblett #twice
2 months ago
Umar Nurmagomedov thinks his brother, Usman Nurmagomedov, can compete with the UFC's best.
Usman (22-0), who became a free agent after knocking out Archie Colgan at PFL New York last month, could be UFC bound if he opts not to re-sign with PFL. His older brother Umar raved about his work ethic, and thinks he's ready for the elite of the UFC's lightweight division – including champion Justin Gaethje.
"He's an amazing fighter, and I'm a huge fan of his," Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie of Usman. "I like how he spars, how he works, how he does everything as a professional. And even in the cage, he shows he's a high-level fighter. I think he can be competitive with anybody in the world.
"Sometimes people think in other promotions, (they're) bad fighters, but it's not like that. For example, Shabliy is one of the toughest guys, Alexandr Shabliy. Even Arman (Tsarukyan) knows that because he sparred with him a lot. He knows how he's tough, and I think Usman can compete with anybody in the world. Gaethje, Ilia (Topuria), Arman, (Mauricio) Ruffy, anybody."
Their teammate, UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, has openly said he wants to see Usman in the UFC. Nurmagomedov on the other hand, wasn't as direct with his opinion.
#arman
Usman (22-0), who became a free agent after knocking out Archie Colgan at PFL New York last month, could be UFC bound if he opts not to re-sign with PFL. His older brother Umar raved about his work ethic, and thinks he's ready for the elite of the UFC's lightweight division – including champion Justin Gaethje.
"He's an amazing fighter, and I'm a huge fan of his," Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie of Usman. "I like how he spars, how he works, how he does everything as a professional. And even in the cage, he shows he's a high-level fighter. I think he can be competitive with anybody in the world.
"Sometimes people think in other promotions, (they're) bad fighters, but it's not like that. For example, Shabliy is one of the toughest guys, Alexandr Shabliy. Even Arman (Tsarukyan) knows that because he sparred with him a lot. He knows how he's tough, and I think Usman can compete with anybody in the world. Gaethje, Ilia (Topuria), Arman, (Mauricio) Ruffy, anybody."
Their teammate, UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, has openly said he wants to see Usman in the UFC. Nurmagomedov on the other hand, wasn't as direct with his opinion.
#arman
3 months ago
Daniel Cormier wants Ali Abdelaziz to pump the brakes on PFL champion Usman Nurmagomedov's chances against top UFC lightweights.
Nurmagomedov (22-0) is a free agent after knocking out Archie Colgan in the first-round of the PFL New York main event earlier this month. If Nurmagomedov does end up signing with the UFC, his manager, Abdelaziz, claimed on the "Pound 4 Pound" podcast that he would have his way with Ilia Topuria, Paddy Pimblett, Charles Oliveira, and Max Holloway – which Cormier thinks is an absurd statement to make.
"I get it, that's your guy, you're a promoter, but you're speaking about the absolute best guys in the world," Cormier said on his YouTube channel. "Now, to have faith and think Usman Nurmagomedov can fight these guys, absolutely. ... I think Usman Nurmagomedov is special. I think Usman Nurmagomedov, if he comes to the UFC, immediately becomes one of the top contenders in the organization. I have seen this young man train. I have seen him work. I know that he has championship-level experience."
While Nurmagomedov got some of that championship-level experience through two tough outings against Paul Hughes, Cormier said the UFC would be a step up in competition.
"As good as the Irish kid is, the UFC guys are better," Cormier said. "So you would imagine that these fights would be ultra competitive, but that's the beauty in having a guy separate himself from the world in a different organization. That's the beauty because while what Ali says is very out there, when he looks at that group of fighters, he would expect that because that's all they've really done. Umar has done very well. Khabib dominated; Islam has dominated.
#cormier #think #pound
Nurmagomedov (22-0) is a free agent after knocking out Archie Colgan in the first-round of the PFL New York main event earlier this month. If Nurmagomedov does end up signing with the UFC, his manager, Abdelaziz, claimed on the "Pound 4 Pound" podcast that he would have his way with Ilia Topuria, Paddy Pimblett, Charles Oliveira, and Max Holloway – which Cormier thinks is an absurd statement to make.
"I get it, that's your guy, you're a promoter, but you're speaking about the absolute best guys in the world," Cormier said on his YouTube channel. "Now, to have faith and think Usman Nurmagomedov can fight these guys, absolutely. ... I think Usman Nurmagomedov is special. I think Usman Nurmagomedov, if he comes to the UFC, immediately becomes one of the top contenders in the organization. I have seen this young man train. I have seen him work. I know that he has championship-level experience."
While Nurmagomedov got some of that championship-level experience through two tough outings against Paul Hughes, Cormier said the UFC would be a step up in competition.
"As good as the Irish kid is, the UFC guys are better," Cormier said. "So you would imagine that these fights would be ultra competitive, but that's the beauty in having a guy separate himself from the world in a different organization. That's the beauty because while what Ali says is very out there, when he looks at that group of fighters, he would expect that because that's all they've really done. Umar has done very well. Khabib dominated; Islam has dominated.
#cormier #think #pound
3 months ago
Demetrious Johnson hopes Usman Nurmagomedov secures a big bag if he joins the UFC.
Lightweight champion Nurmagomedov (22-0) completed the final fight of his PFL contract when he knocked out Archie Colgan in this past Friday's PFL New York main event at UBS Arena.
During his post-fight interview, Nurmagomedov jokingly confronted Jake Paul about his digs towards UFC fighter pay in wake of PFL's merger with MVP.
"If I was Dana, I would pay Usman Nurmagomedov whatever the f*ck he wants to take him away from the PFL merger because you're stealing a star from their organization," Johnson said on his YouTube channel. "I like the position that Usman is in.
"He's beaten everybody over there, and if he is an athlete that wants to test himself against the best in the lightweight division, I think it would be sick to have him fight in the UFC lightweight division when you've got Justin Gaethje, Ilia Topuria ... there are some good fights over there."
#nurmagomedov #fight #johnson
Lightweight champion Nurmagomedov (22-0) completed the final fight of his PFL contract when he knocked out Archie Colgan in this past Friday's PFL New York main event at UBS Arena.
During his post-fight interview, Nurmagomedov jokingly confronted Jake Paul about his digs towards UFC fighter pay in wake of PFL's merger with MVP.
"If I was Dana, I would pay Usman Nurmagomedov whatever the f*ck he wants to take him away from the PFL merger because you're stealing a star from their organization," Johnson said on his YouTube channel. "I like the position that Usman is in.
"He's beaten everybody over there, and if he is an athlete that wants to test himself against the best in the lightweight division, I think it would be sick to have him fight in the UFC lightweight division when you've got Justin Gaethje, Ilia Topuria ... there are some good fights over there."
#nurmagomedov #fight #johnson
3 months ago
Paul Hughes hopes to get one more shot at PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov.
Hughes (14-3) suffered two close **** le losses to Nurmagomedov, with their rematch at PFL Champions Series 2 sparking debate on the decision. He was scheduled to headline PFL Belfast against Jay Jay Wilson in April, but a knee injury, which required surgery, forced him out of the bout.
Nurmagomedov (22-0) is now a free agent after retaining his lightweight **** le with a first-round TKO of Archie Colgan at PFL New York this past Friday, making it a possibility that Hughes never gets his wish of a trilogy.
"First of all, Nurmagomedov, first-round knockout, I knew you'd win," Hughes said on his "X." "Different level than Colgan. In fact, different level than most lightweights in the world to be honest. Obviously, a lot of questions where his future lies. If it's UFC, I don't think anyone gives him many problems in the top 15 other than certain stylistic matches like (Ilia) Topuria, (Max) Holloway. Anyway, if he sticks around at PFL, obviously we have a lot of history there.
"I think the MMA world is in agreement that we're one each right now. Second fight, close. I took full responsibility for it at the time. I did not train for six weeks before that fight. I've just done back-to-back surgeries because of injuries. I believe 100 percent I have the beating of that man. I know that that trilogy can happen down the line. May sound absolutely deluded, I know a lot of people are going to think that."
#hughes #colgan #title
Hughes (14-3) suffered two close **** le losses to Nurmagomedov, with their rematch at PFL Champions Series 2 sparking debate on the decision. He was scheduled to headline PFL Belfast against Jay Jay Wilson in April, but a knee injury, which required surgery, forced him out of the bout.
Nurmagomedov (22-0) is now a free agent after retaining his lightweight **** le with a first-round TKO of Archie Colgan at PFL New York this past Friday, making it a possibility that Hughes never gets his wish of a trilogy.
"First of all, Nurmagomedov, first-round knockout, I knew you'd win," Hughes said on his "X." "Different level than Colgan. In fact, different level than most lightweights in the world to be honest. Obviously, a lot of questions where his future lies. If it's UFC, I don't think anyone gives him many problems in the top 15 other than certain stylistic matches like (Ilia) Topuria, (Max) Holloway. Anyway, if he sticks around at PFL, obviously we have a lot of history there.
"I think the MMA world is in agreement that we're one each right now. Second fight, close. I took full responsibility for it at the time. I did not train for six weeks before that fight. I've just done back-to-back surgeries because of injuries. I believe 100 percent I have the beating of that man. I know that that trilogy can happen down the line. May sound absolutely deluded, I know a lot of people are going to think that."
#hughes #colgan #title
3 months ago
Check out this week's "Spinning Back Clique," MMA Junkie's weekly live show that takes a spin through the biggest topics in mixed martial arts.
This week's panel of Brian "Goze" Garcia, Farah Hannoun and Danny Segura will join host "Gorgeous" George Garcia live at noon ET (9 a.m. PT) to discuss and debate the following topics:
UFC hosted its first-ever event in Serbia with UFC Fight Night 282. In the main event, Uros Medic made sure to close out the show favorably for the home crowd, putting away veteran Daniel Rodriguez in just 30 seconds. It was an impressive win that now has Medic on a 4-0 run with all victories coming by stoppage. What's next for Medic? How far can he go at 170 pounds? We discuss.
Big news for the MMA industry. PFL is set to merge into MVP MMA at the start of 2027. Both rosters will be merging, along with the promotional machines, to create a stronger promotion on paper to rival the UFC. We discuss all the implications this merge can have on the sport, along with what this means for the UFC and their practices.
Usman Nurmagomedov is now a free agent after he fought out his contract with the PFL this past Friday at PFL New York. Nurmagomedov steps into free agency fresh off a quick stoppage over Archie Colgan and a second **** le defense of the PFL lightweight **** le. This result accompanies Dakota Ditcheva's decision win over Denise Kielholtz in the co-main event of the card. We recap the PFL New York headlining bouts.
#Event #nurmagomedov
This week's panel of Brian "Goze" Garcia, Farah Hannoun and Danny Segura will join host "Gorgeous" George Garcia live at noon ET (9 a.m. PT) to discuss and debate the following topics:
UFC hosted its first-ever event in Serbia with UFC Fight Night 282. In the main event, Uros Medic made sure to close out the show favorably for the home crowd, putting away veteran Daniel Rodriguez in just 30 seconds. It was an impressive win that now has Medic on a 4-0 run with all victories coming by stoppage. What's next for Medic? How far can he go at 170 pounds? We discuss.
Big news for the MMA industry. PFL is set to merge into MVP MMA at the start of 2027. Both rosters will be merging, along with the promotional machines, to create a stronger promotion on paper to rival the UFC. We discuss all the implications this merge can have on the sport, along with what this means for the UFC and their practices.
Usman Nurmagomedov is now a free agent after he fought out his contract with the PFL this past Friday at PFL New York. Nurmagomedov steps into free agency fresh off a quick stoppage over Archie Colgan and a second **** le defense of the PFL lightweight **** le. This result accompanies Dakota Ditcheva's decision win over Denise Kielholtz in the co-main event of the card. We recap the PFL New York headlining bouts.
#Event #nurmagomedov
3 months ago
UsmanNurmagomedov and IliaTopuria could be on a collision course, and the Russian'smanager has now weighed in on the matchup.
Nurmagomedov (22-0) is the most sought-after free agent in mixedmartial arts presently. The undefeated Professional Fighters League lightweight exhausted his currentcontract with the promotion by defending his ****** le with a knockoutwin over ArchieColgan at PFL New York.
Usman's manager has now addressed how he'd fare against the formertwo-division Ultimate Fighting Championship ****** leholder.
Topuria (17-1) was the fastest-rising fighter in the sport untilhis ****** le loss to JustinGaethje at UFC Freedom 250, the first defeat of his pro career. Despitebeing no longer unbeaten, he remains one of the biggest stars inthe UFC.
Ali Abdelaziz manages both Gaethje and Nurmagomedov. With rumors ofNurmagomedov looking to sign with the UFC now circulating,Abdelaziz predicts that the Dagestani standout will stop Topuria bythe fourth round, as Gaethje did.
"I told everyone before that Justin Gaethje would beat IliaTopuria," Abdelaziz wrote on X. "And I'm telling you today: UsmanNurmagomedov will stop Ilia Topuria within four rounds."
It remains to be seen whether Nurmagomedov re-signs with the PFLamid their merger with Jake Paul'sMost Valuable Promotions. Notably, DanaWhite confirmed the UFC's interest in the 28-year-old followingUFC Belgrade.
#topuria #gaethje #title #russian 'smanager
Nurmagomedov (22-0) is the most sought-after free agent in mixedmartial arts presently. The undefeated Professional Fighters League lightweight exhausted his currentcontract with the promotion by defending his ****** le with a knockoutwin over ArchieColgan at PFL New York.
Usman's manager has now addressed how he'd fare against the formertwo-division Ultimate Fighting Championship ****** leholder.
Topuria (17-1) was the fastest-rising fighter in the sport untilhis ****** le loss to JustinGaethje at UFC Freedom 250, the first defeat of his pro career. Despitebeing no longer unbeaten, he remains one of the biggest stars inthe UFC.
Ali Abdelaziz manages both Gaethje and Nurmagomedov. With rumors ofNurmagomedov looking to sign with the UFC now circulating,Abdelaziz predicts that the Dagestani standout will stop Topuria bythe fourth round, as Gaethje did.
"I told everyone before that Justin Gaethje would beat IliaTopuria," Abdelaziz wrote on X. "And I'm telling you today: UsmanNurmagomedov will stop Ilia Topuria within four rounds."
It remains to be seen whether Nurmagomedov re-signs with the PFLamid their merger with Jake Paul'sMost Valuable Promotions. Notably, DanaWhite confirmed the UFC's interest in the 28-year-old followingUFC Belgrade.
#topuria #gaethje #title #russian 'smanager
3 months ago
Usman Nurmagomedov is officially the biggest free agent in combat sports after he demolished Archie Colgan this past Friday to finish his current contract with the PFL.
With an undefeated record, a dominant style on the feet and on the ground and coming from one of the top teams in MMA history, Nurmagomedov is entering the prime of his career with the chance to truly decide his future with his next contract. The powers-that-be at PFL-MVP — including CEO John Martin and Jake Paul — have made it clear they want to keep Nurmagomedov but there's little doubt that the allure of going to the UFC is definitely an enticing option.
While he didn't offer much on the subject, UFC CEO Dana White reacted to Nurmagomedov's free agency and if the UFC was interested in potentially pursuing him now that he's available.
"Sure," White said with a big smile on his face during the UFC Belgrade post-fight press conference.
White added another smile-face emoji when his initial reaction started making the rounds on social media. What that exactly means is left up for interpretation but it's impossible to believe the UFC won't make a serious push to sign Nurmagomedov to the roster, especially considered the promotion's ties to his family in the past.
#free #past #contract #colgan
With an undefeated record, a dominant style on the feet and on the ground and coming from one of the top teams in MMA history, Nurmagomedov is entering the prime of his career with the chance to truly decide his future with his next contract. The powers-that-be at PFL-MVP — including CEO John Martin and Jake Paul — have made it clear they want to keep Nurmagomedov but there's little doubt that the allure of going to the UFC is definitely an enticing option.
While he didn't offer much on the subject, UFC CEO Dana White reacted to Nurmagomedov's free agency and if the UFC was interested in potentially pursuing him now that he's available.
"Sure," White said with a big smile on his face during the UFC Belgrade post-fight press conference.
White added another smile-face emoji when his initial reaction started making the rounds on social media. What that exactly means is left up for interpretation but it's impossible to believe the UFC won't make a serious push to sign Nurmagomedov to the roster, especially considered the promotion's ties to his family in the past.
#free #past #contract #colgan
3 months ago
Things are about to get fascinating.
Professional Fighters League (PFL) Lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov torched top prospect Archie Colgan in the first round this past Friday (July 31, 2026) in the main event of PFL New York inside UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York (watch highlights).
And with that win, his PFL contract has come to an end.
That means Nurmagomedov now has a massive decision to make: re-sign with PFL or follow his family's path to Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
So, what does the undefeated Russian want to do?
#fighters #lightweight #usman
Professional Fighters League (PFL) Lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov torched top prospect Archie Colgan in the first round this past Friday (July 31, 2026) in the main event of PFL New York inside UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York (watch highlights).
And with that win, his PFL contract has come to an end.
That means Nurmagomedov now has a massive decision to make: re-sign with PFL or follow his family's path to Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
So, what does the undefeated Russian want to do?
#fighters #lightweight #usman
3 months ago
Fresh off the news of the merger with Most Valuable Promotions, Professional Fighters League continued its "Summer Series" runof events with a surge of momentum.
Two of the company's top superstars made their return aslightweight champion UsmanNurmagomedov put his ***** le on the line against undefeatedchallenger ArchieColgan, and DakotaDitcheva denied DeniseKielholtz following a year on the shelf.
Following a brutal and decisive first-round finish over Colgan,there are immediate questions on the future of Nurmagomedov and hisplace in the company, as he just fought out the last fight of hiscontract. Nurmagomedov made it a point to see how the PFL/MVPmerger would lead to a contract offer in terms of pay, and if theykeep him, there's a clear top contender in Shabliy. DefeatingAlfieDavis by unanimous decision last month, Shabliy discussed hisdesire for a ***** le fight and he could get a chance at revenge froma 2024 loss to Nurmagomedov.
Taking on Kielholtz in her first action in over a year, Ditchevadid not have her most outstanding performance, and it was clear shewas shaking off some rust. Ditcheva would control the pace anddistance, grabbing momentum early and never letting it go. Aftergetting the rust off, it's time for the most anticipated women'smatchup in the PFL to take place against last year's tournamentchampion in Carmouche. Getting a recent win over VivianeAraujo, these two women are on a collision course and thereshould be no more time wasted.
Magomedov's performance proved there is another Russian star on thepromotion's roster. Part of the Nurmagomedov team, Magomedov waselectric in his manhandling of AngelAlvarez, chopping down his legs with brutal kicks andeventually getting the TKO finish in the second round. He shouldnow face off against the 2025 PFL Lightweight tournament champion.Davis just suffered a loss to Shabliy back in June, but could getright back into the top of the division if he can stop the momentumof Magomedov. Davis has said that he felt he fought his best in hisloss against Nurmagomedov, who knows Magomedov well, and he couldserve as a great test to see just how quickly he can get himselfback to ***** le contention.
Dayron arguably went through the toughest test of his career and itwas also his closest fight, as he pulled off a razor-thin decisionover RaufeonStots. His opponent was thoroughly shocked at the decision, butit saw Dayron keep his undefeated record intact. Even with the win,Dayron would benefit from another veteran test, and he'd get justthat in Pettis. Recently, Pettis was scheduled to square offagainst LewisMcGrillen-Evans but had to withdraw due to injury, if Pettiscan get healthy sooner than later, he would serve as another greattest for Dayron.
#nurmagomedov #pettis
Two of the company's top superstars made their return aslightweight champion UsmanNurmagomedov put his ***** le on the line against undefeatedchallenger ArchieColgan, and DakotaDitcheva denied DeniseKielholtz following a year on the shelf.
Following a brutal and decisive first-round finish over Colgan,there are immediate questions on the future of Nurmagomedov and hisplace in the company, as he just fought out the last fight of hiscontract. Nurmagomedov made it a point to see how the PFL/MVPmerger would lead to a contract offer in terms of pay, and if theykeep him, there's a clear top contender in Shabliy. DefeatingAlfieDavis by unanimous decision last month, Shabliy discussed hisdesire for a ***** le fight and he could get a chance at revenge froma 2024 loss to Nurmagomedov.
Taking on Kielholtz in her first action in over a year, Ditchevadid not have her most outstanding performance, and it was clear shewas shaking off some rust. Ditcheva would control the pace anddistance, grabbing momentum early and never letting it go. Aftergetting the rust off, it's time for the most anticipated women'smatchup in the PFL to take place against last year's tournamentchampion in Carmouche. Getting a recent win over VivianeAraujo, these two women are on a collision course and thereshould be no more time wasted.
Magomedov's performance proved there is another Russian star on thepromotion's roster. Part of the Nurmagomedov team, Magomedov waselectric in his manhandling of AngelAlvarez, chopping down his legs with brutal kicks andeventually getting the TKO finish in the second round. He shouldnow face off against the 2025 PFL Lightweight tournament champion.Davis just suffered a loss to Shabliy back in June, but could getright back into the top of the division if he can stop the momentumof Magomedov. Davis has said that he felt he fought his best in hisloss against Nurmagomedov, who knows Magomedov well, and he couldserve as a great test to see just how quickly he can get himselfback to ***** le contention.
Dayron arguably went through the toughest test of his career and itwas also his closest fight, as he pulled off a razor-thin decisionover RaufeonStots. His opponent was thoroughly shocked at the decision, butit saw Dayron keep his undefeated record intact. Even with the win,Dayron would benefit from another veteran test, and he'd get justthat in Pettis. Recently, Pettis was scheduled to square offagainst LewisMcGrillen-Evans but had to withdraw due to injury, if Pettiscan get healthy sooner than later, he would serve as another greattest for Dayron.
#nurmagomedov #pettis
3 months ago
Professional Fighters League's return to UBS Arena in LongIsland, New York, was punctuated by a majestic performance in themain event.
The PFL New York headliner saw current 155-pound ***** leholderUsmanNurmagomedov (22-0, 1 NC; 4-0 PFL) defend his championshipagainst ArchieColgan (13-1, 2-1 PFL). After a feeling-out couple of minutesin the center of the cage, Nurmagomedov connected with a head kickon his opponent's temple before following up with a big left handthat dropped Colgan. Shortly after the American managed torecompose himself and get back to his feet, Nurmagomedov followedup with more uppercuts that sent "King" to his knees. Smellingblood, the Dagestani landed more punches before referee KeithPeterson waved it off at the 3:42 mark of Round 1. In hispost-fight interview, Nurmagomedov was noncommittal about hisfuture in the promotion, since Friday's fight was the last on hiscurrent contract.
In the co-main event, DakotaDitcheva (16-0, 11-0 PFL) made a successful return from ayear-long injury hiatus, taking on former BellatorMMA ***** le challenger DeniseKielholtz (9-6, 1-1 PFL). "Dangerous" showed no cage rust,combining clean, sharp striking with effective takedowns, puttingany concerns about the injured hand to rest. Ditcheva made the mostof her reach, attacking from range with front kicks to the head andmidsection, while Kielholtz answered with a few spinning attacksbut overall posed little threat. The pace slowed in the thirdframe, drawing scattered boos as Ditcheva went the distance for thethird time in her otherwise finish-heavy career. When the dustsettled, all three judges scored it 30-27 for Ditcheva.
In a 157-pound catchweight tilt, AmruMagomedov (10-0, 2-0 PFL) kept his record unblemished byovercoming AngelAlvarez (11-3, 1-1 PFL). Magomedov attacked with a variety ofstrikes out of the gate, but his kicks proved to be his most lethalweapon. After "Salsa King," who failed to make the contracted155-pound weight limit the day before, crumpled from the damage,Magomedov poured it on until referee Dan Miragliotta stepped in at 4:28 ofRound 2.
An elitemiddleweight clash headlines PFL Charlotte: Tune on Friday, Aug. 7at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN.
The main card opener saw former Ares Fighting Championship205-pound kingpin MoustaphaDiakhate (6-0-1, 1-0 PFL) make a statement in his promotionaldebut, crushing last-minute replacement DarrylKing Walker (2-1, 0-1 PFL). "Black Black" hunted his opponentdown with strikes from the opening bell before taking the fight to the canvas and finishing "The Sacred Beast"from mount at 2:35 into the opening stanza.
In the featured fight on the preliminary card, LazaroDayron (11-0-1, 3-0-1 PFL) relied on his crisp striking andwell-timed takedowns to outpoint former interim Bellator MMA135-pound ***** leholder RaufeonStots (21-5, 1-3 PFL) at the end of a close contest, with twojudges scoring 29-28 in favor of "El Cazador" and one 29-28 for"Supa"; earlier, Sean Gauci(12-1, 2-0 PFL) dominated AllanB
The PFL New York headliner saw current 155-pound ***** leholderUsmanNurmagomedov (22-0, 1 NC; 4-0 PFL) defend his championshipagainst ArchieColgan (13-1, 2-1 PFL). After a feeling-out couple of minutesin the center of the cage, Nurmagomedov connected with a head kickon his opponent's temple before following up with a big left handthat dropped Colgan. Shortly after the American managed torecompose himself and get back to his feet, Nurmagomedov followedup with more uppercuts that sent "King" to his knees. Smellingblood, the Dagestani landed more punches before referee KeithPeterson waved it off at the 3:42 mark of Round 1. In hispost-fight interview, Nurmagomedov was noncommittal about hisfuture in the promotion, since Friday's fight was the last on hiscurrent contract.
In the co-main event, DakotaDitcheva (16-0, 11-0 PFL) made a successful return from ayear-long injury hiatus, taking on former BellatorMMA ***** le challenger DeniseKielholtz (9-6, 1-1 PFL). "Dangerous" showed no cage rust,combining clean, sharp striking with effective takedowns, puttingany concerns about the injured hand to rest. Ditcheva made the mostof her reach, attacking from range with front kicks to the head andmidsection, while Kielholtz answered with a few spinning attacksbut overall posed little threat. The pace slowed in the thirdframe, drawing scattered boos as Ditcheva went the distance for thethird time in her otherwise finish-heavy career. When the dustsettled, all three judges scored it 30-27 for Ditcheva.
In a 157-pound catchweight tilt, AmruMagomedov (10-0, 2-0 PFL) kept his record unblemished byovercoming AngelAlvarez (11-3, 1-1 PFL). Magomedov attacked with a variety ofstrikes out of the gate, but his kicks proved to be his most lethalweapon. After "Salsa King," who failed to make the contracted155-pound weight limit the day before, crumpled from the damage,Magomedov poured it on until referee Dan Miragliotta stepped in at 4:28 ofRound 2.
An elitemiddleweight clash headlines PFL Charlotte: Tune on Friday, Aug. 7at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN.
The main card opener saw former Ares Fighting Championship205-pound kingpin MoustaphaDiakhate (6-0-1, 1-0 PFL) make a statement in his promotionaldebut, crushing last-minute replacement DarrylKing Walker (2-1, 0-1 PFL). "Black Black" hunted his opponentdown with strikes from the opening bell before taking the fight to the canvas and finishing "The Sacred Beast"from mount at 2:35 into the opening stanza.
In the featured fight on the preliminary card, LazaroDayron (11-0-1, 3-0-1 PFL) relied on his crisp striking andwell-timed takedowns to outpoint former interim Bellator MMA135-pound ***** leholder RaufeonStots (21-5, 1-3 PFL) at the end of a close contest, with twojudges scoring 29-28 in favor of "El Cazador" and one 29-28 for"Supa"; earlier, Sean Gauci(12-1, 2-0 PFL) dominated AllanB
3 months ago
Usman Nurmagomedov continued his incredible undefeated run Friday at PFL New York with another defense of his lightweight **** le, this time against Archie Colgan.
Colgan (13-1) came into the fight with a perfect record and all the confidence, but Nurmagomedov (22-0) took that away from him with a first-round knockout victory in the event headliner at UBS Arena on Long Island.
With the win, Nurmagomedov completed the final fight of his PFL contract and will become one of the most coveted fighters in the sport. He resisted talking about the situation, but the door could potentially be open for a long-discussed moved to the UFC's 155-pound weight class.
Check below for the top social media reactions to Nurmagomedov's **** le defense vs. Colgan at PFL New York.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Fighters react to Usman Nurmagomedov's PFL **** le defense in final contract fight
#nurmagomedov #usman #york #long
Colgan (13-1) came into the fight with a perfect record and all the confidence, but Nurmagomedov (22-0) took that away from him with a first-round knockout victory in the event headliner at UBS Arena on Long Island.
With the win, Nurmagomedov completed the final fight of his PFL contract and will become one of the most coveted fighters in the sport. He resisted talking about the situation, but the door could potentially be open for a long-discussed moved to the UFC's 155-pound weight class.
Check below for the top social media reactions to Nurmagomedov's **** le defense vs. Colgan at PFL New York.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Fighters react to Usman Nurmagomedov's PFL **** le defense in final contract fight
#nurmagomedov #usman #york #long
3 months ago
Professional Fighters League (PFL) continues its Summer Series later TONIGHT (Fri., July 31, 2026) as PFL New York goes down from inside UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. Headlining the event will be a Lightweight ***** le fight as division kingpin, Usman Nurmagomedov, defends the strap against Archie Colgan.
Nurmagomedov (21-0) is looking to lock down his second-ever ***** le defense, with his first coming against Alfie Davis earlier this year, submitting him via triangle choke at PFL Dubai (see it again here). As for Colgan, he is undefeated (13-0) and is 2-0 under PFL's banner. Prior to that, Colgan had racked up a record of 7-0 under Bellator MMA's banner.
Many readers check in before, during and after the fights to share their thoughts on all of the action, as the main card kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on the ESPN App and ESPN2. Feel free to leave a comment (or several) about the bouts and chat with all the other Maniacs during the show — it's always a lot of fun!
In the co-main event, striking superstar, Dakota Ditcheva, returns after a rare year-long layoff in an effort to improve on her mint record of (15-0, 10-0 PFL), taking on long-time combat veteran, Denise Kielholtz, in a women's Flyweight (cough, squash) match. The two were set to throw down at PFL Dubai earlier this year, but the bout had to be rescheduled after Ditcheva withdrew with an injury (more details here).
155 lbs.: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Archie Colgan – Nurmagomedov wins via first-round knockout
125 lbs.: Dakota Ditcheva vs. Denise Kielholtz -Ditcheva wins via unanimous decision – HIGHLIGHTS!
155 lbs.: Amru Magomedov vs. Angel Alvarez – Magomedov wins via second round TKO
205 lbs.: Moustapha Diakhate vs. Zacharia Nishimwe – Diakhate via first-round TKO
135 lbs.: Raufeon Stots vs. Lazaro Dayron – Dayron wins via split-decision
135 lbs.: Sean Gauci vs. Alan Begosso – Gauci wins via unanimous decision
170 lbs.: Jonathan Piersma vs. Omar El Dafrawy – Dafrawy wins via unanimous decision
125 lbs.: Montana De La Rosa vs. Tatiana Postarnakova- Postarnakova wins via split-decision
155 lbs.: Chamy Delva vs. Levan Khabalaev – Khabalaev wins via first-round TKO
#decision
Nurmagomedov (21-0) is looking to lock down his second-ever ***** le defense, with his first coming against Alfie Davis earlier this year, submitting him via triangle choke at PFL Dubai (see it again here). As for Colgan, he is undefeated (13-0) and is 2-0 under PFL's banner. Prior to that, Colgan had racked up a record of 7-0 under Bellator MMA's banner.
Many readers check in before, during and after the fights to share their thoughts on all of the action, as the main card kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on the ESPN App and ESPN2. Feel free to leave a comment (or several) about the bouts and chat with all the other Maniacs during the show — it's always a lot of fun!
In the co-main event, striking superstar, Dakota Ditcheva, returns after a rare year-long layoff in an effort to improve on her mint record of (15-0, 10-0 PFL), taking on long-time combat veteran, Denise Kielholtz, in a women's Flyweight (cough, squash) match. The two were set to throw down at PFL Dubai earlier this year, but the bout had to be rescheduled after Ditcheva withdrew with an injury (more details here).
155 lbs.: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Archie Colgan – Nurmagomedov wins via first-round knockout
125 lbs.: Dakota Ditcheva vs. Denise Kielholtz -Ditcheva wins via unanimous decision – HIGHLIGHTS!
155 lbs.: Amru Magomedov vs. Angel Alvarez – Magomedov wins via second round TKO
205 lbs.: Moustapha Diakhate vs. Zacharia Nishimwe – Diakhate via first-round TKO
135 lbs.: Raufeon Stots vs. Lazaro Dayron – Dayron wins via split-decision
135 lbs.: Sean Gauci vs. Alan Begosso – Gauci wins via unanimous decision
170 lbs.: Jonathan Piersma vs. Omar El Dafrawy – Dafrawy wins via unanimous decision
125 lbs.: Montana De La Rosa vs. Tatiana Postarnakova- Postarnakova wins via split-decision
155 lbs.: Chamy Delva vs. Levan Khabalaev – Khabalaev wins via first-round TKO
#decision
3 months ago
Uncrowned has PFL New York live results, round-by-round updates, highlights and start time for the Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Archie Colgan and Dakota Ditcheva vs. Denise Kielholtz fight card on Friday night at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. In the main event, PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov defends his 155-pound ****** le against undefeated American challenger Archie Colgan in a five-round showdown.
Nurmagomedov (21-0, 1 NC) is widely considered one the top talents in the world outside of the UFC. The younger brother of UFC contender Umar Nurmagomedov and cousin of former UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, Nurmagomedov is competing on the final fight of his PFL contract. He's a perfect 3-0 since joining the promotion following PFL's acquisition of Bellator in 2024, a run highlighted by two wins over Paul Hughes.
Colgan (13-0) is also an undefeated Bellator export. The Colorado native has won back-to-back decisions over Mansour Barnaoui and Jay Jay Wilson since transitioning to the PFL brand, the most recent of which came in October.
Top PFL star Dakota Ditcheva (15-0) makes his long-awaited return against Denise Kielholtz (9-5) in the night's three-round co-main event.
PFL New York starts at 4:30 p.m. ET with a five-fight preliminary card on ESPN+. The main card kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and ESPN+.
#round #card #dakota
Nurmagomedov (21-0, 1 NC) is widely considered one the top talents in the world outside of the UFC. The younger brother of UFC contender Umar Nurmagomedov and cousin of former UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, Nurmagomedov is competing on the final fight of his PFL contract. He's a perfect 3-0 since joining the promotion following PFL's acquisition of Bellator in 2024, a run highlighted by two wins over Paul Hughes.
Colgan (13-0) is also an undefeated Bellator export. The Colorado native has won back-to-back decisions over Mansour Barnaoui and Jay Jay Wilson since transitioning to the PFL brand, the most recent of which came in October.
Top PFL star Dakota Ditcheva (15-0) makes his long-awaited return against Denise Kielholtz (9-5) in the night's three-round co-main event.
PFL New York starts at 4:30 p.m. ET with a five-fight preliminary card on ESPN+. The main card kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and ESPN+.
#round #card #dakota
3 months ago
The official weigh ins for PFL New York took place earlier this morning ahead of tomorrow's "Usman vs. Colgan" fight card, which goes down Fri., July 31, 2026, inside UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York.
In the main event, undefeated Lightweight standouts Usman Nurmagomedov and Archie Colgan both successfully made the championship mark ahead of their 155-pound Professional Fighters League (PFL) ****** le fight.
Nurmagomedov (21-0) weighed in at 154.8 pounds, while "King" Colgan (13-0) also came in at 154.8 pounds, making the highly anticipated ****** le fight official.
In the co-main event, PFL Flyweight superstar Dakota Ditcheva finally returns to action after one year away when she collides with longtime Bellator veteran Denise Kielholtz.
Ditcheva, who is one of the biggest betting favorites in mixed martial arts (MMA) history this week, also made weight with no issues. "Dangerous" tipped the scale at 125.8 pounds, while Kielholtz came in well under the limit at 121.8 pounds.
#fight #kielholtz
In the main event, undefeated Lightweight standouts Usman Nurmagomedov and Archie Colgan both successfully made the championship mark ahead of their 155-pound Professional Fighters League (PFL) ****** le fight.
Nurmagomedov (21-0) weighed in at 154.8 pounds, while "King" Colgan (13-0) also came in at 154.8 pounds, making the highly anticipated ****** le fight official.
In the co-main event, PFL Flyweight superstar Dakota Ditcheva finally returns to action after one year away when she collides with longtime Bellator veteran Denise Kielholtz.
Ditcheva, who is one of the biggest betting favorites in mixed martial arts (MMA) history this week, also made weight with no issues. "Dangerous" tipped the scale at 125.8 pounds, while Kielholtz came in well under the limit at 121.8 pounds.
#fight #kielholtz
3 months ago
The Professional Fighters League has finalized the lineup for itsJuly 31 event at UBS Arena in Long Island, New York, featuring an11-bout card headlined by a lightweight **** le fight.
PFL New York is headlined by UsmanNurmagomedov vs. ArchieColgan. The card also features several notable matchups acrossthe main and preliminary cards.
PFL New York will see undefeated champion Nurmagomedov (21-0)defend his lightweight crown against unbeaten contender Colgan(13-0) in the main event.
In the co-headliner, top-ranked women's flyweight DakotaDitcheva (15-0) returns after more than a year on the sidelinesagainst DeniseKielholtz (9-5) in a bout with significant **** le implicationsat 125 pounds.
The main card also includes a light heavyweight matchup betweenDovletdzhanYagshimuradov (26-8-1) and SimeonPowell (12-2), while unbeaten lightweight prospect AmruMagomedov (10-0) squares off against AngelAlvarez (11-2).
The preliminary card is topped by a bantamweight clash betweenRaufeonStots (21-4) and unbeaten LazaroDayron (10-0-1). Elsewhere, JonathanPiersma (12-3) faces Omar ElDafrawy (15-6) in a 175-pound catchweight contest, Sean Gauci(11-1) faces AllanBegosso (10-4-1) at bantamweight and unbeaten light heavyweightprospects MoustaphaDiakhate (5-0-1) and ZachariaNishimwe (4-0) are also set to collide.
A lightweighttitle fight headlines PFL NY: Tune on Friday, July 31 at 7 p.m. ETon ESPN.
Other scheduled matchups include a light heavyweight bout betweenundefeated KhabibNabiev (12-0) and JamelleJones (15-8), a women's flyweight contest featuring MontanaDe La Rosa (13-9-1) against unbeaten TatianaPostarnakova (7-0) and a lightweight matchup pitting Chamy Delva(7-1) against LevanKhabalaev (4-0).
The prelims begin at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT on ESPN App, with the maincard airing at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ESPN.
#unbeaten #main
PFL New York is headlined by UsmanNurmagomedov vs. ArchieColgan. The card also features several notable matchups acrossthe main and preliminary cards.
PFL New York will see undefeated champion Nurmagomedov (21-0)defend his lightweight crown against unbeaten contender Colgan(13-0) in the main event.
In the co-headliner, top-ranked women's flyweight DakotaDitcheva (15-0) returns after more than a year on the sidelinesagainst DeniseKielholtz (9-5) in a bout with significant **** le implicationsat 125 pounds.
The main card also includes a light heavyweight matchup betweenDovletdzhanYagshimuradov (26-8-1) and SimeonPowell (12-2), while unbeaten lightweight prospect AmruMagomedov (10-0) squares off against AngelAlvarez (11-2).
The preliminary card is topped by a bantamweight clash betweenRaufeonStots (21-4) and unbeaten LazaroDayron (10-0-1). Elsewhere, JonathanPiersma (12-3) faces Omar ElDafrawy (15-6) in a 175-pound catchweight contest, Sean Gauci(11-1) faces AllanBegosso (10-4-1) at bantamweight and unbeaten light heavyweightprospects MoustaphaDiakhate (5-0-1) and ZachariaNishimwe (4-0) are also set to collide.
A lightweighttitle fight headlines PFL NY: Tune on Friday, July 31 at 7 p.m. ETon ESPN.
Other scheduled matchups include a light heavyweight bout betweenundefeated KhabibNabiev (12-0) and JamelleJones (15-8), a women's flyweight contest featuring MontanaDe La Rosa (13-9-1) against unbeaten TatianaPostarnakova (7-0) and a lightweight matchup pitting Chamy Delva(7-1) against LevanKhabalaev (4-0).
The prelims begin at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT on ESPN App, with the maincard airing at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ESPN.
#unbeaten #main
3 months ago
Scotland Eilish McColgan is giving herself "every opportunity" to defend her Commonwealth Games 10,000m **** le in her home country on Monday as she recovers from a foot fracture, says mother and coach Liz.
McColgan, 35, emulated her mum by roaring to gold in Birmingham four years ago in one of the most iconic moment of that event.
In an injury-scarred spell since then, she has transitioned to road racing but has committed to returning to the track so she can compete at a second home Games in Glasgow after doing the steeplechase in 2014.
However, battling through a gruesome toe injury in April's London Marathon led to an undetected stress fracture, which has cast McColgan's participation in Monday's historic mile event at Scotstoun in serious doubt.
Scotland win three medals in 45 minutes to kick-start Glasgow 2026
#Scotland #Event #injury #eilish
McColgan, 35, emulated her mum by roaring to gold in Birmingham four years ago in one of the most iconic moment of that event.
In an injury-scarred spell since then, she has transitioned to road racing but has committed to returning to the track so she can compete at a second home Games in Glasgow after doing the steeplechase in 2014.
However, battling through a gruesome toe injury in April's London Marathon led to an undetected stress fracture, which has cast McColgan's participation in Monday's historic mile event at Scotstoun in serious doubt.
Scotland win three medals in 45 minutes to kick-start Glasgow 2026
#Scotland #Event #injury #eilish
4 months ago
It is an event that has been going for 96 years.
The Commonwealth Games have provided iconic sporting moments – from Roger Bannister's win in the 'Miracle Mile' of 1954 and Eilish McColgan breaking her mum's record in 2022 to England's netball victory four years earlier in Australia.
But the 2026 Games, which open in Glasgow on Thursday, come at an intriguing time for the event. Many doubted whether they would even happen - and when they do go ahead, they will do so in a stripped-back form.
So how did we get here? And do athletes and fans still care and what could the future hold?
The 2026 Commonwealth Games were thrown into doubt when its original hosts, the Australian state of Victoria, pulled out in 2023 citing spiraling costs. That decision took even the leaders of Commonwealth Sport by surprise.
#even #miracle
The Commonwealth Games have provided iconic sporting moments – from Roger Bannister's win in the 'Miracle Mile' of 1954 and Eilish McColgan breaking her mum's record in 2022 to England's netball victory four years earlier in Australia.
But the 2026 Games, which open in Glasgow on Thursday, come at an intriguing time for the event. Many doubted whether they would even happen - and when they do go ahead, they will do so in a stripped-back form.
So how did we get here? And do athletes and fans still care and what could the future hold?
The 2026 Commonwealth Games were thrown into doubt when its original hosts, the Australian state of Victoria, pulled out in 2023 citing spiraling costs. That decision took even the leaders of Commonwealth Sport by surprise.
#even #miracle
5 months ago
Usman Nurmagomedov will fulfill the final fight on his current contract at PFL Long Island, setting the stage for one of the most anticipated free agencies in recent MMA history.
Undefeated reigning PFL lightweight champion Nurmagomedov (21-0) will meet Archie Colgan (13-0) in the main event of the July 31 card at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, N.Y. (ESPN). It's a massive moment for him, because it will set the stage for the next chapter of his career.
Nurmagomedov's potential free agency has been a major talking point for several months. It's now approaching reality, and although Nurmagomedov has nothing but praise for what PFL has done to him, he expects his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, of Dominance MMA, to survey the entire landscape.
"I did already 12 fights in Bellator and PFL and I'm very thankful for that," Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie. "I love it. We have really good relationship with the team from PFL. I don't know what's going to happen next. If we talk about today, I didn't sign nothing. I have one fight left – this fight. Then we'll see.
"I don't have any problem to stay with PFL. I love PFL and let's see. Let's see if I will show my best performance. I think a lot of people will be interested in me. First of all, it's going to be PFL. I cannot say something now because this is Ali's job. I think he's going to figure it out. ... I will go out and do my job and if somebody going to pay me good money, we will stay there."
Undefeated reigning PFL lightweight champion Nurmagomedov (21-0) will meet Archie Colgan (13-0) in the main event of the July 31 card at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, N.Y. (ESPN). It's a massive moment for him, because it will set the stage for the next chapter of his career.
Nurmagomedov's potential free agency has been a major talking point for several months. It's now approaching reality, and although Nurmagomedov has nothing but praise for what PFL has done to him, he expects his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, of Dominance MMA, to survey the entire landscape.
"I did already 12 fights in Bellator and PFL and I'm very thankful for that," Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie. "I love it. We have really good relationship with the team from PFL. I don't know what's going to happen next. If we talk about today, I didn't sign nothing. I have one fight left – this fight. Then we'll see.
"I don't have any problem to stay with PFL. I love PFL and let's see. Let's see if I will show my best performance. I think a lot of people will be interested in me. First of all, it's going to be PFL. I cannot say something now because this is Ali's job. I think he's going to figure it out. ... I will go out and do my job and if somebody going to pay me good money, we will stay there."
