UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev wants his first title defense against Kamaru Usman, considering him the biggest challenge and deserving of another shot despite other contenders, due to Usman’s past dominance and recent victory over Joaquin Buckley.
UFC welterweight champ Islam Makhachev has his sights set on Kamaru Usman for his first title defense. Why? He believes Usman poses the biggest challenge.
In a chat with Red Corner MMA, Makhachev shared his thoughts on why Usman deserves a shot at reclaiming his belt. Despite contenders like Michael Morales and Shavkat Rakhmonov waiting, he sees Usman as the real deal.
“I said I wanted to fight Kamaru Usman next,” Makhachev stated. He feels the media doubts this matchup, but he’s convinced Usman would steamroll the up-and-comers.
Makhachev thinks Usman would be his toughest fight yet. Plus, the media buzz around a former champ with the most title defenses could make it a thrilling event.
Usman, who shares management with Makhachev, dominated the welterweight division from 2019-2022. However, a rough patch saw him lose three fights, including two against Leon Edwards, before bouncing back by defeating Joaquin Buckley.
Buckley was on a hot streak, and Makhachev believes Usman’s victory over him shows he’s ready for another title shot. “Usman took him apart,” Makhachev noted, highlighting Usman’s prowess.
Currently, Makhachev rides a 16-fight win streak, tying with Anderson Silva for the longest in UFC history. Before claiming the welterweight belt, he was a lightweight champ with four title defenses.
He’s waiting on the UFC’s decision for his next opponent. “There’s a lot of options,” Makhachev said. Welterweight is buzzing, and he’s ready to stay in the division, holding the belt comfortably.