Despite some of the backlash, Islam Makhachev insists that his first UFC welterweight title defense should be against Kamaru Usman.
Makhachev (28-1 MMA, 17-1 UFC), who took the 170-pound belt from Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in November, is well aware of the fan and media criticism surrounding his request against Usman (21-4 MMA, 16-3 UFC). Yet, Makhachev believes that’s the hardest challenge for him available, and sees Usman running through all other current title contenders in the division.
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“I said I wanted to fight Kamaru Usman next,” Makhachev said to Red Corner MMA speaking in Russian. “Although the media doesn’t believe in this fight, as I can see. But in my opinion, Usman would steamroll through these up-and-comers like (Michael) Morales, (Carlos) Prates, the striker. Those guys haven’t been checked yet. I think Usman would be the hardest fight for me, and in terms of media we could build it up like former champion, the most title defenses in my weight division. We could promote this fight and make it fun to watch.”
Usman, 38, has also been campaigning for a shot at the belt. He did beat rising contender Joaquin Buckley in his return to the cage after almost two years of not fighting. However, prior to the win, Usman was on a three-fight losing streak, putting him at a 1-4 record since 2022.
Usman’s questionable form compared to the form of other top contenders, such as Morales and Ian Machado Garry, has generated a lot of criticism towards the Makhachev vs. Usman matchup. Many believe there are other more deserving and better contenders than Usman.
Makhachev things this is a mistake from the critics. He believes they are underestimating the former UFC welterweight champion.
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“Buckley was one of the contenders,” Makhachev said. “Usman simply took him apart and everybody has already forgotten about this guy. But if Buckley won, he would’ve been one hundred percent contender number one.”
Makhachev, 34, hopes his first title defense comes against Usman, but he’s also not going to die on that hill. He’s willing to take on all comers, and he’s communicated that to the UFC.
“There’s a lot of options for me,” Makhachev said. “My division is really lively now. So there are options. We’ll see. Actually, I don’t care. The UFC will probably offer me someone soon, and I told them that I didn’t care because I feel that I am going to stay in this division for a long time, holding my belt and feeling comfortable.”
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Islam Makhachev wants Kamaru Usman next: ‘The hardest fight for me’
