Islam Makhachev says pay could stop Usman Nurmagomedov signing with UFC

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has expressed doubt over whether Usman Nurmagomedov will sign with the UFC after his PFL contract expires, citing a significant pay difference between the two promotions. Nurmagomedov (21-0) is set to defend his PFL lightweight title against Archie Colgan (13-0) on July 31 at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, N.Y., which will be the final fight on his current PFL deal. Makhachev suggested Nurmagomedov could benefit from tougher UFC competition but noted the UFC would likely pay roughly half of what PFL offers, and that signing one more PFL contract of three fights would not hinder his future prospects.