Usman Nurmagomedov's choice: coach Mendez will back whatever he decides
The unbeaten PFL lightweight champion has been out of contract since late July. His coach Javier Mendez advises a tune-up fight if he moves to the UFC.
Graphic: TERRA WORLD NEWS (own graphic based on the sources listed)
Usman Nurmagomedov's PFL contract expired after his knockout win in the PFL New York main event at the end of July. Since then it has been unclear whether the lightweight champion (22-0, 1 no contest) will stay with the PFL or move to the UFC. According to MiddleEasy, negotiations are being handled by his manager Ali Abdelaziz.
His coach Javier Mendez of the American Kickboxing Academy is not taking sides. He lays out the pros and cons for Usman and then backs his choice, Mendez said in an interview with MMA Junkie, as reported by MiddleEasy: "I want him to know that I'm with him." He himself is not involved in the decision.
If Usman moves to the UFC, Mendez would prefer an adjustment fight before a title shot – because of the added pressure, not because the fighters there are better. At the same time, the PFL still offers attractive opponents, the coach said.