In what was deemed as ‘Dagestan vs Ireland 2’, Usman Nurmagomedov defeated Paul Hughes to defend his lightweight PFL belt. That fight happened in January, but the win fueled conversations about the Dagestani joining the UFC soon. “I’m waiting for Islam to finish his career,” Nurmagomedov said when sharing a potential timeline to sign up with one of the biggest MMA promotions. But after his brother, Umar Nurmagomedov‘s unanimous decision win over Mario Bautista at UFC 321, people want to see Usman in the UFC, too.

When asked about the possibility of the PFL star joining the UFC, Dana White admitted in the post-event press conference, “We have an incredible relationship with them.

“I don’t know the answer to that question,” he added. “I would have to talk to the matchmakers.”

Though the CEO made no promises, the fact that he shares a great rapport with Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s team is a stepping stone. White seemed optimistic, and that optimism is validated by Usman Nurmagomedov’s continued domination in the PFL.

And his 20-0 MMA record only helps his case.

This undefeated record has started many comparisons with his cousin, Khabib Nurmagomedov’s UFC run. That said, if Usman were to join the UFC, the level of competition would be higher, and it would be interesting to see if he would be able to show the same dominance in a stacked division. But it doesn’t end here.

While White chose a pragmatic way of answering the media’s questions about Usman, there is something that MMA fans did not miss. During UFC 321 weigh-ins, Usman greeted White and made his way to say hello to Hunter Campbell.

Campbell looked quite pleased to see Usman and gave him a tight hug. That clip attracted a lot of attention online and led to speculation that the UFC might sign him soon. However, as of now, those are just rumors.

What’s interesting is that he is coming off a very recent win. On October 3, he faced Paul Hughes in a rematch and won via a unanimous decision. From the first bell to the last, Usman’s performance proved that the Nurmagomedov dynasty is still synonymous with greatness in MMA grappling and strategy.

With the Nurmagomedovs showing dominance in their separate promotions, the UFC landscape is ready for a family takeover. If Umar continues to climb toward a title shot and Usman officially joins the UFC, their legacy may be set to expand even further. In fact, Umar Nurmagomedov is already aiming for the next chapter.

Umar Nurmagomedov seeks a rematch against Merab Dvalishvili

The moment Umar Nurmagomedov exited the Octagon at UFC 321, it was clear he had higher ambitions. Following a strong win over Mario Bautista, the Dagestani star wasn’t just celebrating another victory; he was already eyeing the bantamweight title. With spectators shouting and cameras flashing, he announced that the next chapter in his career could very well include a showdown with reigning champion Merab Dvalishvili.

“I will come to take this belt. Doesn’t matter who it’s gonna be, Petr Yan, Merab, doesn’t matter. I will become champion,” he said following the win. His words are heavy with the weight of prior disappointment. The 29-year-old, who previously lost to Dvalishvili at UFC 311, is desperate to rewrite that narrative.

His performance against Bautista, marked by composure, sharp grappling, and precise striking, showed a fighter ready for the pressure of a championship bout. With ‘The Machine’ set to defend his title against Petr Yan at UFC 323, the stakes for the young eagle are high. Nurmagomedov is making it clear that he will not take any chances by carefully observing and preparing for his future opponents.

With Dana White acknowledging that a standout performance might land him a title shot, Umar will be ready to fight for the belt as soon as the opportunity arrives, keeping the Dagestani legacy alive and dominant in the UFC bantamweight division. What do you think? Is a title fight next for the Team Khabib member? Let us know in the comments.