“That Scares Me” – Islam Makhachev Gets UFC Legend Kamaru Usman ‘Nervous’ Ahead of Potential Matchup

Kamaru Usman highlights Islam Makhachev’s dominance and elite skill set as the new welterweight champion reshapes the UFC landscape.

“That Scares Me” – Islam Makhachev Gets UFC Legend Kamaru Usman ‘Nervous’ Ahead of Potential Matchup

Kamaru Usman talks about Islam Makhachev's dominance (via MMA Fighting, BBC)

🔍 Explore this post with:

ChatGPTPerplexityGrok AIGoogle AI

The welterweight division shifted dramatically after UFC 322, leaving a crowded field of contenders chasing a clear route to the title. New names emerged, established fighters repositioned themselves, and the hierarchy changed overnight. Islam Makhachev added to this upheaval by becoming the 10th two-division UFC champion. This set the stage for Kamaru Usman to weigh in on the new titleholder.

Makhachev captured the welterweight belt at UFC 322 by technically dismantling Jack Della Maddalena. He relied on his Sambo lessons and Dagestani wrestling to control every phase of the fight. His grappling pressure neutralized Maddalena’s offense throughout the bout. The win extended his streak to 16, tying Anderson Silva’s UFC record.

Usman currently holds the No. 8 spot in the welterweight rankings as he continues seeking a return to title contention. Before UFC 322, he had expressed interest in facing the winner of Makhachev vs. Maddalena as a route back to the belt. With Makhachev emerging as champion, Usman shifted toward assessing what the matchup might look like.

When I look at a guy like Islam, I don’t really see holes (in his game) and that’s something that scares me and that’s when you see some of the most spectacular performances, the last time I felt that was against Colby Covington.

Kamaru Usman via Pound4Pound Show

Makhachev’s credentials have contributed to his reputation as one of the most complete fighters in the UFC. His abilities include precise grappling transitions, positional dominance, and consistent defensive responsibility. He blends striking and wrestling with measured pacing and strategic discipline. These elements have made him defeat the likes of Alexander Volkanovski, Charles Oliveira, and Dustin Poirier.

Usman’s résumé reinforced why discussions about him remain relevant within the division. As a former welterweight champion, he accumulated multiple title defenses during a run marked by sustained dominance. His victories came over elite names such as Colby Covington, Jorge Masvidal, and Gilbert Burns. His championship tenure established him as one of the most successful fighters in the weight class.

In his most recent outing, Kamaru Usman earned a dominant victory over Joaquin Buckley, reasserting his form against a rising contender. Before the post-UFC 322 reshuffle, he had briefly explored the possibility of moving toward a middleweight title pursuit. The dramatic changes in the welterweight picture have since redirected his immediate competitive focus.

Islam Makhachev chooses Kamaru Usman as the next title contender

UFC 322 functioned like a mini tournament for the welterweight division, producing two major knockout outcomes that reshaped the rankings. Carlos Prates scored a second-round knockout against Leon Edwards with a clean straight left at the 1:28 mark. Michael Morales followed by stopping #2 ranked Sean Brady with a first-round TKO after sustained pressure.

Islam Makhachev chooses Kamaru Usman for next contender
Islam Makhachev chooses Kamaru Usman for next contender (via Instagram, Playoffs)

Islam Makhachev and Kamaru Usman are both managed by Ali Abdelaziz, creating a longstanding connection between the two. During Usman’s reign as welterweight champion, they had agreed in principle to a potential matchup. After Makhachev captured the welterweight title at UFC 322, he reignited interest in making that bout a reality.

Today, the two did fight very well, Morales and Prates, but I still think Kamaru [Usman] can beat them both. And Kamaru is the biggest. Young fighters are hungry, but Kamaru is still dangerous and one of the best in this game. If you give me the choice and ask me who I want to fight, I will take Kamaru. But it’s not my job. Anyone, I will be ready.

Islam Makhachev via About Last Fight

Javier Mendez supported the idea by noting that a Islam Makhachev vs. Kamaru Usman fight remains a viable and meaningful option. He emphasized how the division currently presents several strong contenders pursuing the next title shot. Among those, the upcoming Ian Garry vs. Belal Muhammad fight at UFC Qatar stands out. Its outcome may heavily influence the next challenger for the welterweight belt.

Also Read: