Usman Nurmagomedov sees A.J. McKee as top contender for Bellator San Diego title winner

September 3, 2024 6:50 pm ET

The number of viable title contenders in Bellator’s lightweight division seemingly are few at the moment, but Usman Nurmagomedov sees one logical and significant matchup on the horizon.

Before Nurmagomedov (17-0) can think about defending his 155-pound strap against anyone else, he first must get through Alexandr Shabliy in Saturday’s Bellator Champions Series: San Diego headliner, which takes place at Pechanga Arena and streams on Max.

If Nurmagomedov gets the job done, though, and maintains his undefeated record, he thinks the rightful top contender is A.J. McKee, who is a former featherweight champion and one of the most decorated fighters in Bellator history.

McKee (22-1) reportedly is expected to face Paul Hughes at PFL: Battle of the Giants on Oct. 19 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and if he wins that, then Nurmagomedov thinks he will be poised for a chance to win a Bellator title in a second division.

“I think if he’s healthy and he’s ready, I think it’s going to be A.J. McKee,” Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie. “He’s a tough guy. I think he’s going to win (against Hughes), and then next fight, I think it’s going to be A.J. McKee vs. Usman Nurmagomedov.”

Ryan Bader, Patricio Freire and Joe Warren are the only Bellator fighters to hold belts in two weight classes. Several others have tried and failed over the course of company history, and McKee could be next on the list.

Given their family names and success in MMA competition, a matchup between Nurmagomedov and McKee is seemingly one of the most significant matchups and attractions that could be made in the Bellator lightweight division.

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event page for Bellator Champions Series: San Diego.

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