Usman Nurmagomedov flattens Archie Colgan in stunning first-round knockout to retain PFL Lightweight Title. Usman Nurmagomedov reminded the MMA world why he’s considered one of the sport’s brightest stars, defending his PFL lightweight championship with a devastating first-round knockout over previously unbeaten Archie Colgan in the main event of PFL New York at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on Friday, July 31, 2026.
From the opening bell, Nurmagomedov took control of the center of the cage, staying patient while reading Colgan’s movement. The challenger looked to close the distance, but the champion’s timing and precision quickly made the difference. The turning point came when Nurmagomedov landed a perfectly timed question-mark kick that stunned Colgan. As the undefeated challenger tried to recover, Nurmagomedov immediately followed with a powerful right hand that sent him crashing to the canvas. Sensing the finish, he swarmed with pinpoint uppercuts and unanswered punches.
Though Colgan showed heart by trying to survive, the referee had seen enough and stepped in to stop the fight, awarding Nurmagomedov a first-round knockout victory and another successful title defense. The emphatic finish improved Nurmagomedov’s professional record to 22-0 and further cemented his place among the world’s elite lightweight fighters. The victory also fueled speculation about his future, with the champion’s PFL contract now complete and rumors of a potential move elsewhere continuing to grow.
After the fight, Nurmagomedov kicked off his free agency by saying he’ll see what Dana White is offering before then addressing new PFL co-owner Jake Paul. “Money will,” Nurmagomedov said when asked what will keep him in the PFL. “Why? Jake Paul talks about Dana White doesn’t pay his fighters. Now’s his chance to show how he pays people when they deserve it. 22-0, undefeated, undisputed lightweight champion of the world. Do we think I deserve it?”
For Archie Colgan, the loss marked the first defeat of his professional career. Although the result was disappointing, earning a title shot while undefeated highlighted his potential, and many expect the talented American to remain a key figure in the lightweight division.
The co-main event saw undefeated sensation Dakota Ditcheva continue her remarkable rise with a dominant unanimous decision victory over veteran Denise Kielholtz. Ditcheva controlled the fight from start to finish, using her crisp striking, speed, and footwork to outclass the former Bellator kickboxing champion over three rounds. All three judges scored the contest 30-27, extending Ditcheva’s unbeaten record and further cementing her status as one of the brightest stars in women’s MMA.
Check out the PFL New York results below.
Main Card
Usman Nurmagomedov def. Archie Colgan via TKO (kick and punches) — 3:42, Round 1.
Dakota Ditcheva def. Denise Kielholtz via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Amru Magomedov def. Angel Alvarez via TKO (punches) — 4:28, Round 2.
Moustapha Diakhaté def. Darryl Walker via TKO (punches) — 2:35, Round 1.
Preliminary Card
Lazaro Dayron def. Raufeon Stots via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Sean Gauci def. Allan Begosso via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Omar El Dafrawy def. Jonathan Piersma via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 30-27)
Tatiana Postarnakova def. Montana De La Rosa via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Levan Khabalaev def. Chamy Delva via TKO (knees and punches) — 1:44, Round 1.
