Beneil Dariush surprised 'really freaking good' Usman Nurmagomedov isn't in UFC already - MMA Junkie

Beneil Dariush thinks Usman Nurmagomedov is destined for UFC greatness.

Lightweight champion Nurmagomedov's 90-day exclusive negotiating period with the PFL expired last week, which allows him to now speak with the UFC and other organizations. A former UFC lightweight contender, Dariush believes Nurmagomedov (22-0) has been octagon ready for a while.

"I'm surprised he's not in the UFC already," Dariush told MMA Junkie of Nurmagomedov. "He's so good, and I would assume it's either they can't agree on the contract or, I mean, that's it. That's the only thing I can think of that would keep him from the UFC because he's really freaking good."

Dariush expects Nurmagomedov to draw a top-ranked contender in his debut if he signs with the UFC.

"Absolutely," Dariush said. "I think he'll get a top-10 fight right off the bat and then a top-five fight right off the bat," Dariush said. "I think he's that good."

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