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Mendez Sees Ali-Level Impact in Usman
25 Jan
Summary
- Javier Mendez believes Usman Nurmagomedov can surpass Khabib's legacy.
- Usman is preparing to defend his PFL lightweight title.
- Mendez ranks Usman as the world's top lightweight outside the UFC.
Trainer Javier Mendez has projected that Usman Nurmagomedov could become the heir to the greatest legacy in mixed martial arts, a level of impact he likens to Muhammad Ali's in boxing. Mendez, who trains elite fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev, believes Usman, currently 27, is exceptionally advanced and already ahead of many Dagestani fighters in accomplishments.
Usman is preparing to defend his PFL lightweight title against Alfie Davis. Mendez considers Usman the top lightweight globally outside of the UFC, with Islam Makhachev being the only fighter he ranks higher, though Makhachev now competes in a different weight class. This upcoming bout is seen as a pivotal moment in Usman's career.
Speculation continues regarding a potential move to the UFC for Usman Nurmagomedov. He himself acknowledged that after his current PFL contract, which includes two more fights, he will discuss his future and gauge interest from promotions like the UFC. Despite the allure of facing top UFC talent, Usman noted he already has "everything" in the PFL as champion.
