Usman Nurmagomedov

PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov has questioned the strength of the UFC’s current lightweight rankings, arguing that competing outside the UFC does not mean a fighter is operating at a lower level.

Nurmagomedov remains undefeated at 22-0 and is currently a free agent. The 28-year-old strengthened his case with a first-round knockout victory over Archie Colgan at PFL New York last month. He now has two major options ahead of him: re-sign with the PFL or pursue a move to the UFC.

Usman Nurmagomedov Wants Respect for PFL Fighters

Nurmagomedov has already established himself as one of the most successful lightweight fighters outside the UFC. He has defeated several of the PFL’s leading contenders, including Paul Hughes twice.

Despite that record, Nurmagomedov believes there is still a perception that the UFC automatically represents the highest level of competition in mixed martial arts.

Speaking to Sport24, Nurmagomedov rejected that idea and pointed toward the UFC lightweight rankings as evidence that rankings do not always tell the full story.

“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 said, according to Red Corner MMA.

The undefeated champion believes some UFC fighters can remain highly ranked despite inconsistent results. He also questioned whether certain fighters have done enough recently to justify their positions.

Nurmagomedov Criticizes UFC Lightweight Rankings

Nurmagomedov specifically discussed Benoit Saint Denis and Paddy Pimblett while making his argument.

He pointed out that Saint Denis had built a strong record before suffering losses to Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano. Although Saint Denis later recorded three victories, he was stopped quickly by Pimblett and remained highly ranked.

Nurmagomedov also questioned Pimblett’s position near the top of the division after his recent results.

The PFL champion argued that rankings should reflect consistent performances rather than simply a fighter’s position within the UFC system.

His comments highlight the difference between being highly ranked and consistently proving yourself against elite competition.

Ilia Topuria and Arman Tsarukyan Also Mentioned

Nurmagomedov also brought up former UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria and top contender Arman Tsarukyan.

Topuria entered his previous UFC lightweight run with an undefeated record and a reputation as one of the sport’s biggest stars. However, Nurmagomedov questioned the way Topuria’s status was evaluated after suffering a loss.

He also criticized Tsarukyan’s activity. According to Nurmagomedov, the Armenian contender has fought less frequently while continuing to describe himself as one of the best fighters in the world.

That comparison is especially important because Nurmagomedov believes his own activity deserves more recognition.

“While he fought twice, I defended my title four times,” Nurmagomedov said.

For Nurmagomedov, championship defenses are a major measure of a fighter’s credibility. His undefeated record and repeated title defenses have helped establish him as one of the most dangerous lightweight fighters outside the UFC.

UFC Move Could Set Up Major Lightweight Fights

Nurmagomedov’s free-agent status makes his comments particularly interesting. If he signs with the UFC, he could immediately become one of the most intriguing additions to the lightweight division.

The UFC currently features several elite fighters competing for championship opportunities. Justin Gaethje recently upset Ilia Topuria to capture the lightweight title at UFC Freedom 250.

Meanwhile, Arman Tsarukyan is scheduled to face Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event of UFC 331 on September 19. The matchup is expected to have major implications for the lightweight title picture and could determine a future No. 1 contender.

A UFC move would therefore give Nurmagomedov an opportunity to test his undefeated record against the fighters he has criticized.

Nurmagomedov vs. UFC Lightweight Elite?

Nurmagomedov’s comments have added another layer of intrigue to the UFC-PFL lightweight rivalry. His record suggests he has dominated nearly every challenge placed in front of him in the PFL.

However, a UFC contract would provide the ultimate test.

The undefeated champion has already beaten the best fighters available to him in the PFL. If he joins the UFC, fans could finally see how his skills compare with the promotion’s top-ranked lightweights.

For now, Nurmagomedov remains a free agent. Whether he returns to the PFL or moves to the UFC, his next decision could have a significant impact on the lightweight division.

His message is clear: he does not believe the UFC label alone makes a fighter better. Now, the next chapter of his career could give him the opportunity to prove it.