Deiveson Figueiredo's rival is planning a title fight after UFC 324 against his former opponent; find out why.

Umar during a fight at UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

A strong favorite for the fight against Deiveson Figueirado next Saturday (24), Umar Nurmagomedov wants to repeat the steps of Islam Makhachev and become another champion representing the Dagestan Clan. In addition to the Brazilian, other names may emerge to hinder the path of Khabib's younger cousin, such as Sean O'Malley and Merab Dvalishvili , who are looking for an opportunity at the top of the bantamweight division (up to 61,2 kg) against Petr Yan.

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Looking ahead to the next chapters of the category, Nurmagomedov imagines that he will possibly not be favored in relation to the winner of Sean O'Malley and Song Yadong . However, he also showed himself willing to face another opponent if necessary.

“I predict they won’t give me a title shot after this fight, but I’ll be ready to fight again, no matter how many times. I have to fight for the title in 2026, and that’s the goal. Maybe I’ll headline in the summer against the winner of the O’Malley vs. Song Yadong fight . If O’Malley fights for the belt next, that would be even better for me – I’ll have a rematch with Merab,” the fighter declared.

Umar Nurmagomedov says if O'Malley fights for the belt next, a rematch with Merab will be even better for him #UFC324

"I predict they will not give me a title shot after this fight, but I'll be ready to fight again no matter how many times. I have to fight for the title in… pic.twitter.com/OjWLbLBDtM

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) January 21, 2026

Umar Nurmagomedov has a loss in the UFC.

Merab Dvalishvili defeated Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311 (Photo: Instagram/UFC)

Currently ranked second in the division, Umar suffered the first defeat of his professional career when he was dominated by Merab Dvalishvili in the co-main event of UFC 311. In addition to the loss, the Russian also had to undergo surgery to recover from a fractured hand. Since then, he has returned to the win column against Mario Bautista , while the Georgian lost his title to Petr Yan.

Although they have never faced each other and are compatriots, the relationship between Umar Nurmagomedov and Petr Yan is far from good. Recently, Khabib publicly stated the animosity between the two athletes.

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