Another Nurmagomedov is set to hit the big stage.
Umar Nurmagomedov, UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov’s cousin, has joined the PFL roster and will compete Aug. 8 against Sidemar Honorio at PFL 2019: Week 6 at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, N.J. The main card streams on ESPN+ following prelims on ESPN2.
Undefeated like his cousin, Nurmagomedov (10-0 MMA) will kick off the ESPN+ portion of the card and will not be a part of the PFL’s 2019 regular season. Instead, he will take part in the “New Fighter Showcase” series, an opportunity for up-and-coming fighters to compete in the PFL outside the season and tournament format.
“Umar Nurmagomedov has proven to be more than just Khabib’s cousin, he is a rising star in the sport with unlimited potential,” PFL president Ray Sefo stated. “We’re excited to add Umar to our PFL 6 card, building on what will be an incredible night of heavyweight and light heavyweight action with playoff spots on the line. This is also a great opportunity for Sidemar to fight close to home and prove himself against a difficult opponent in front of a national audience.”
Umar splits his training between Russia and American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose, Calif., with Khabib. He notched his seventh pro win for PFL in 2018 with a unanimous decision win over Saidyokub Kakharamonov.
“Umar is my cousin; we’ve (been) training together with my father a long time, and right now this is his time to shine” Khabib Nurmagomedov stated. “It’s going to be a big opportunity for him because he’ll fight live on ESPN.”
