Sean Shelby's Shoes: What's next for Umar Nurmagomedov after UFC on ABC 7 win?

The UFC soon could have its next undefeated champion after Umar Nurmagomedov broke through as a top contender by beating Cory Sandhagen in the UFC on ABC 7 main event.

Nurmagomedov (18-0 MMA, 6-0 UFC) got the signature win he needed to elevate into title contention with a unanimous decision victory over Sandhagen (17-5 MMA, 10-4 UFC) at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and with it seemingly is next in line to challenge the winner of the UFC 306 (Noche UFC) main event Sept. 14 between bantamweight champ Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili.

UFC CEO Dana White has said Nurmagomedov will fight for the belt next, but will he stick to his word, or are there other options in play?

Watch the video above for thoughts and analysis on Nurmagomedov’s future after his UFC on ABC 7 main event win.

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC on ABC 7.