Makhachev: Usman Nurmagomedov ready to sign with UFC after PFL contract expires

Islam Makhachev said Usman Nurmagomedov is on par with elite UFC lightweights, underscoring growing attention on the PFL champion's readiness.Speaking to Ushatayka, Makhachev said Nurmagomedov would give "very hard rounds" to top UFC lightweights and has trained with him since childhood.The undefeated PFL lightweight champion has drawn comparisons to leading UFC contenders amid his continued run.Nurmagomedov is 21-0 with 15 finishes and notable wins over Patricky Freire and Benson Henderson.He won the inaugural PFL lightweight title against Paul Hughes, then defended it in a rematch with Hughes and against Alfie Davis.Makhachev added that a potential UFC move could align with Nurmagomedov's contract expiring within a year.