With his next title defense booked, Khabib Nurmagomedov is about to become an even richer man.
Set to take on Dustin Poirier in a title unification bout at UFC 242, Nurmagomedov has also signed a lucrative new multi-fight deal in the process. Nurmagomedov's manager, Ali Abdelaziz, discussed the contract with MMA Fighting earlier today. "We’re extremely happy. We’re well taken care of. We can’t ask for any better. We very grateful. Easiest negotiation I ever did. It was fair, straight to the point. This is one of the biggest deals in UFC history. I don’t care Conor [McGregor], I don’t care this is one of the biggest guaranteed money [contracts] in UFC history."
Considering Nurmagmedov's resume, it's hard to question his value. At an incredible 27-0, the UFC Lightweight Champion has proved to be a unique factor within the sport's landscape. According to Abdelaziz, he'll now be paid as such too. “My opinion right now, Khabib is the pound-for-pound greatest fighter we’ve ever seen. He never lost. He’s never been caught. He’s never been dropped. He’s dominated every round against almost every opponent. No [performance-enhancing drugs], nothing.
“This is why he’s the highest-paid athlete in the UFC today. Believe me. He’s the highest-paid athlete in the UFC today. And I’m saying that again because I see everything. They showed me everything. Khabib is the highest-paid athlete in the UFC and we are happy. It’s time to fight.”
While the exact details remain relatively unclear, ESPN's Brett Okamoto reported one of the more interesting clauses that Abdelaziz said he secured.
In addition to UFC 242, Khabib Nurmagomedov has signed a new multi-fight deal with the UFC, per his manager Ali Abdelaziz. Terms not disclosed, however Abdelaziz said there is a clause in the contract in the event Khabib ever fights GSP. That's apparently already been negotiated.
— Brett Okamoto (@bokamotoESPN) June 4, 2019
Before any fight with St-Pierre can even be considered though, Nurmagomedov first must defeat Poirier at UFC 242. The event takes place in Abu Dhabi on September 7th and will air on ESPN+ PPV.
For MMA Fighting's full interview with Abdelaziz, click here.
