Former welterweight king Kamaru Usman has his eyes locked on the UFC 322 main event. As Jack Della Maddalena prepares to defend his title against Islam Makhachev, Usman believes the winner should face him next. Recently crowned the welterweight GOAT by Dana White, Usman reminded fans that his legacy and resume speak for themselves.
After an impressive comeback win over Joaquin Buckley, Usman says he’s proven he can still dominate the new generation of fighters. “I made it clear what I want is that title back,” Usman told MMA Fighting. “Had it not been for a Hail Mary head kick from Leon Edwards, we wouldn’t be having this conversation right now.”
Usman admitted there were doubts about whether he could still hang with the top contenders, but his last performance erased those questions. Confident in his abilities, he now wants to return to the top of the division, whether it’s against Della Maddalena or Makhachev. “I’m not sitting here saying I just want Islam. No, I want the title, and whoever has it is the fight I want,” Usman said.
When asked about a possible matchup with Makhachev, Usman described it as one of the biggest fights the UFC could make. “Both of us have held the pound-for-pound No.1 spot. I don’t think in history that’s ever happened where two former pound-for-pound kings face off. It’s pure competition, the best of the best,” he said.
However, he’s not overlooking Della Maddalena either. Usman called the Australian champion “dangerous and talented” but believes Makhachev’s elite grappling could make the difference in their clash. “Jack is skilled and powerful, but Islam’s grappling is on another level,” Usman explained.
The former champ also noted that the UFC is heading into a huge year with its upcoming broadcast deal and the White House card planned for 2026. Usman believes a fight between him and Makhachev would be a blockbuster event to kick off the new era. “It’s a humongous fight. You want those fights that elevate the division and make people stop what they’re doing to watch,” Usman said.
With his experience, popularity, and drive, Usman has made one thing clear: he’s not done chasing gold. Whether it’s Makhachev or Della Maddalena, “The Nigerian Nightmare” wants his crown back.
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