Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman has expressed significant skepticism regarding a potential title fight against pound-for-pound king Islam Makhachev, suggesting that UFC matchmakers are leaning towards an alternative direction. This revelation comes amidst intense speculation about Makhachev's next opponent following his historic achievement as a two-weight champion.
Usman's Candid Remarks on the Proposed Bout
Kamaru Usman, with a professional record of 21 wins and 4 losses including 9 knockouts, has been actively pursuing a championship opportunity against Makhachev ever since the Dagestani fighter dethroned Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 to claim the welterweight title. Despite Makhachev publicly endorsing Usman as his preferred challenger, describing the Nigerian fighter as "the biggest name in welterweight" and "the hardest fight for me," Usman has now cast considerable doubt on whether this matchup will materialize.
"Right now, honestly, I really don't know," Usman stated when discussing the rumored title clash. "The Islam fight was obviously what I wanted and what I felt would've been great, not just for me, not just for Islam, but would've been great for the company, would've been great for the world to see that."
UFC Matchmakers' Apparent Preference
Usman revealed that despite conversations with UFC officials, matchmaker Hunter Campbell appears to have reservations about booking the fight. "For some reason... we've had conversations, but Hunter Campbell feels differently and Hunter Campbell's like, 'ah, maybe not'," Usman explained. "He wants to go a different way. We don't know yet. They haven't come out and said, 'okay, Islam is going to get this guy, or Islam's going with me'. But it's been a tumultuous back and forth with getting that done."
This uncertainty persists despite the fact that both fighters share the same manager, Ali Abdelaziz, which would typically streamline negotiations and reduce behind-the-scenes obstacles.
Usman's Recent Form and Legacy
At this stage of his career, Usman's recent performances have been mixed compared to other contenders in the 170-pound division. He secured a decision victory over Joaquin Buckley in June, but this followed a three-fight losing streak that began with his dramatic title loss to British fighter Leon Edwards at UFC 278. Despite this recent inconsistency, Usman remains one of the welterweight division's most accomplished fighters, having dominated as champion from 2019 to 2022 with five successful title defenses against notable opponents including Jorge Masvidal, Colby Covington, and Gilbert Burns.
Makhachev's Dominant Championship Run
Islam Makhachev, boasting an impressive 28-1 record with 5 knockouts, has established himself as nearly unbeatable at the UFC's highest levels. His sole professional loss occurred over a decade ago, and he has since compiled a remarkable championship resume. After relinquishing his lightweight title in May of last year, Makhachev successfully conquered the welterweight division to become one of only eleven double champions in UFC history.
During his dominant lightweight reign, Makhachev decisively defeated elite competitors including Charles Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski, Dustin Poirier, and Renato Moicano. His first welterweight title defense remains unconfirmed as UFC officials weigh their options for the pound-for-pound king's next challenge.
Usman emphasized his honesty about his capabilities throughout the discussion, contrasting himself with fighters who make bold predictions that don't materialize in the octagon. "I'm honest about that and so when I say I can still do this at that high level, I mean that," he asserted, maintaining confidence in his ability to compete at championship level despite the apparent reluctance from UFC matchmakers to book the Makhachev fight.
