Makhachev: 90% Chance Usman Nurmagomedov Signs With UFC

Usman Nurmagomedov's tenure with the PFL appears to be nearing its end, with UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev now weighing in on his teammate's future.

Nurmagomedov has remained the top free agent in MMA since his PFL contract expired following a win over Archie Colgan earlier this year. He recently turned down a reported $2 million offer to re-sign with the promotion, a decision that's fueled speculation about a potential move to the UFC, where he'd immediately become a major threat in the stacked lightweight division.

Asked about the chances of that move actually happening, Makhachev — Nurmagomedov's longtime training partner and cousin of UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov — put the odds at 90 percent.

"It's the perfect move for him; he needs to prove he's the best in the world. He could face a top-10 rival and soon earn a title shot. He grew up alongside Khabib and me, has trained with the best from the start of his career and has extensive experience working with champions; now is the best time for him to join the UFC," Makhachev

While the PFL could still make another push to keep him, Makhachev's comments suggest the door is closing on that possibility.