Zuffa LLC

While many believe that Arman Tsarukyan would be a tough challenger for Justin Gaethje, Henry Cejudo thinks Usman Nurmagomedov is even more of a threat.

Nurmagomedov is currently the biggest free agent in MMA, and if he joins the UFC roster, he’ll be in for stiff competition right away. Cejudo believes Nurmagomedov is as good as advertised. “Triple C” took to the “Pound 4 Pound” podcast to explain why he believes Nurmagomedov could give Gaethje the most issues.

“The toughest matchup for Justin Gaethje, it is Usman Nurmagomedov,” Cejudo said. “Before then, I was thinking it was Arman [Tsarukyan], but dude, Justin Gaethje’s dad said something that triggered Ilia [Topuria]. Justin Gaethje has a really good time with shorter guys. [Rafael] Fiziev, Ilia Topuria, anybody that’s shorter than Justin, Justin kind of tends to have his way. A guy like Usman Nurmagomedov, that’s his biggest matchup.”

Nurmagomedov is the current PFL Lightweight Champion, but he’s free to sign with any promotion. He fulfilled his prior deal at the end of July when he knocked out Archie Colgan to successfully retain the 155-pound gold.

Gaethje won’t be back in action until 2027 as his hands still haven’t fully healed after his undisputed title win over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250. Tsarukyan is scheduled to take on Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event of UFC 331 on Sept. 19. “Batman’s” team is under the belief that a title shot is next with a win.

It’ll be interesting to see who Nurmagomedov’s first test will be against if he ultimately signs with the top MMA promotion. Names such as Paddy Pimblett and Charles Oliveira have been discussed among fans, but that conversation only holds weight if Nurmagomedov signs with UFC. We’ll keep you posted on the details once Nurmagomedov has made his decision.

Do you agree with Henry Cejudo? Is Usman Nurmagomedov the toughest challenger for Justin Gaethje, or do you have someone else in mind? Drop a comment below.

This article appeared first on BJPENN.COM