Signings, releases & free agency
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Makhachev: a UFC move would cost Usman Nurmagomedov half his purse
Islam Makhachev says teammate and PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov (20-1) would likely earn roughly half his current pay if he signs with the UFC once his contract expires. Nurmagomedov defends his title against Archie Colgan at PFL New York on July 31, after which he hits free agency. Makhachev believes the UFC offers the tougher competition Nurmagomedov needs but doubts the promotion will match PFL money, suggesting his teammate could fight out another PFL deal first.
Why it matters: One of the best lightweights outside the UFC is approaching free agency, and the pay gap frames a recurring tension over whether elite non-UFC champions can be lured across.