Islam Makhachev is wasting no time charting the next chapter of his legacy. Fresh off his landmark victory at UFC 322, the newly crowned welterweight champion has identified former titleholder Kamaru Usman as his preferred opponent for his first defence—a matchup many are already calling one of the most significant potential clashes of 2026.
Makhachev made history at UFC 322 by defeating Jack Della Maddalena via unanimous decision, becoming the first fighter in UFC history to rise from lightweight dominance to capture the welterweight belt. The achievement cemented his standing as one of the sport’s most versatile and technically gifted athletes.
His manager, Ali Abdelaziz, has since confirmed that Makhachev is eager to test himself against Usman, whose résumé includes one of the longest welterweight reigns in UFC history. The fight would showcase a captivating stylistic duel: Makhachev’s elite grappling and Dagestani pressure against Usman’s powerhouse wrestling and championship experience.
“He said it. He said he wanted to fight Kamaru Usman. Kamaru Usman (had a) 15-fight winning streak, five title defences, (and is the) greatest welterweight of all time,” Abdelaziz said during a backstage interview after UFC 322.
“Kamaru Usman is a very tough opponent, and I represent him too, and he’s not an easy night for anybody. He’s the real deal, and (Islam) wants to fight the real deal.”
Featherweight great Alexander Volkanovski has already weighed in on the speculation, calling the proposed showdown Makhachev’s “toughest test” to date, underscoring the magnitude of the potential clash.
Despite rising contenders such as Michael Morales and Carlos Prates attempting to stake their claim, Makhachev has made it clear that Usman is the challenge he wants next—a fight that could define an era and reshape the welterweight landscape.
“There are young fighters who are hungry, but Kamaru is still dangerous and one of the best in this game. If you give me the choice… I’ll take Kamaru. But it’s not my job; anyone (they give me), I’ll be ready,” Makhachev told Paul Felder in an interview.
Rumours suggest 2026 as the likely window for the superfight, with fans and analysts eagerly watching as negotiations unfold.
