Islam Makhachev’s Alexander Volkanovski tactic helped Usman Nurmagomedov win

Coach Javier Mendez attributed Usman Nurmagomedov's knockout of Archie Colgan to advice from Islam Makhachev, highlighting the team's tactical role. In PFL New York, Nurmagomedov defended his lightweight title and dropped Colgan with a question-mark kick before finishing the opening round. Mendez said Makhachev had urged feinted teep kicks to the body to set up the head kick. He added the sequence mirrored instruction Makhachev received from striking coach Magomed Bagandov ahead of his 2023 rematch with Alexander Volkanovski. Nurmagomedov's corner includes Khabib Nurmagomedov, brother Umar, Mendez, and UFC welterweight champion Makhachev. Usman enters free agency amid UFC speculation, while Umar faces Yadong Song on Aug. 29 in Shanghai and Makhachev meets Ian Garry on Aug. 15 at UFC 330 in Philadelphia.