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.