Vagaev and Gasanov signed to UFC through connections with Chimaev and Nurmagomedov

Abubakr Vagaev and Magomedrasul Gasanov have joined the UFC roster after years of top ACA fighters failing to make the transition. The analyst suggests their signings came through connections with Khamzat Chimaev and Khabib Nurmagomedov/Islam Makhachev respectively, rather than Dana White's typical preferences. The commentary notes that both fighters specialize in ground control, which historically hasn't aligned with UFC priorities for CIS region fighters. There may have been negotiations involved, such as Chimaev agreeing to face certain opponents in exchange for Vagaev's contract. A potential matchup between Vagaev and Gasanov in their UFC debuts is welcomed by the analyst, though concerns exist about how the UFC will treat and promote them going forward.