Islam Makhachev is wasting no time charting the next chapter of his championship journey following his landmark victory at UFC 322. The newly crowned welterweight champion is already setting his sights on a high-stakes showdown with former titleholder Kamaru Usman — a matchup UFC veteran Alexander Volkanovski has described as Makhachev’s “toughest test.”
The proposed clash, which is being lined up for 2026, promises to be one of the most compelling UFC superfights in recent memory. It would bring together Makhachev’s relentless grappling style and Usman’s celebrated wrestling pedigree, creating a tactical battle that could reshape both fighters’ legacies in the MMA world.
Makhachev etched his name deeper into UFC history with a dominant unanimous decision win over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322. With that performance, he became the first athlete in the promotion’s history to rise from lightweight dominance to capture the welterweight championship — a milestone that has intensified global interest in his next move.
According to Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, the champion is fully eager to pursue the blockbuster matchup. The potential Makhachev vs Usman bout is already generating significant buzz among UFC fans, analysts, and insiders who anticipate one of the most technically compelling title defences the UFC welterweight division has seen.
About the Author
