Ever since Islam Makhachev defeated Jacques de la Maddalena at UFC 322 to develop into the undisputed UFC welterweight kingpin, there was discuss that Makhachev would subsequent face former champion Kamaru Usman.
Not everyone seems to be on board with the concept, however Usman and Makhachev’s supervisor Ali Abdelaziz has vowed to make the struggle occur. In the meantime, Jorge Masvidal, Henry Cejudo and several other others imagine Usman deserves to be the subsequent title challenger.
Makhachev considers “Nigeria’s Nightmare” his hardest struggle at welterweight, and believes the 38-year-old nonetheless has the talent set to beat all the highest fighters at 170 kilos.
The UFC welterweight champion not too long ago appeared in an interview with Usha Taika through which he revealed that he has been provided a struggle in January 2026. Nonetheless, the Russian fighter declined the provide as a result of it got here too late and he had completed coaching camp for UFC 322 a couple of weeks earlier, believing he did not have sufficient time to organize. Makhachev additionally stated he plans to return dwelling after Ramadan in 2026.
“I obtained provided a struggle in January. I believe January is an not possible date as a result of I had already been in camp for 3 months. And so they referred to as me in December. They had been like, ‘You are going to struggle in January.'” It was too late. We wanted to depart for camp and prepare for January. I stated in January that I might by no means struggle. I believe it’s going to undoubtedly be after Ramadan. ”
Was Islam Makhachev vs. Kamaru Usman scheduled for January 2026?
In the identical interview, Islam Makhachev was requested if he was scheduled to struggle Kamaru Usman in January. The 34-year-old added:
“They did not inform me the title, however to be trustworthy, I believe it was (Michael) Morales. That is my opinion. They did not inform me the title. They simply requested if I used to be going to struggle in January. I do not suppose (that it was Kamaru Usman)…I do not actually know, and neither does my supervisor (Ali Abdelaziz).”
Try Islam Makhachev’s feedback beneath.
Islam Makhachev’s current feedback counsel that the UFC could not give Kamaru Usman his subsequent title shot. Usman has solely gained considered one of his final 4 fights. In the meantime, Carlos Prates, Michael Morales and Ian Machado Garry stay energetic and have completed effectively sufficient to be within the title dialog.
Islam Makhachev’s subsequent struggle is anticipated to be introduced in early 2026, with the P4P champion additionally reaffirming his curiosity in competing on the UFC White Home 2026 card.
