(Video) Islam Makhachev and Kamaru Usman face off at UFC 324 forces Khabib Nurmagomedov to step in

UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov hilariously steps in between Islam Makhachev and Kamaru Usman ahead of potential matchup.

(Video) Islam Makhachev and Kamaru Usman face off at UFC 324 forces Khabib Nurmagomedov to step in

Khabib Nurmagomedov steps in between Islam Makhachev and Kamaru Usman (via X, MMA Fighting)

UFC 324 crowned a new interim lightweight champion as Justin Gaethje defeated Paddy Pimblett via unanimous decision. However, behind the scenes, a different moment drew attention. UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov orchestrated a face-off between Kamaru Usman and his teammate, UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev. The encounter highlighted the potential for a matchup between the two.

Makhachev delivered a commanding performance at UFC 322, defeating Jack Della Maddalena via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45). This victory made him the 11th fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two divisions. Immediately after the fight, several contenders positioned themselves for a title shot. Fighters such as Michael Morales and Ian Garry have drawn attention with recent performances.

Despite the number of rising contenders, Makhachev chose Usman as his next potential matchup. The Nigerian Nightmare’s dominant reign as welterweight champion made him a clear choice. The two met face-to-face backstage at the T-Mobile Arena during UFC 324. While they exchanged words, the moment stayed lighthearted, with Nurmagomedov standing between them and keeping the interaction respectful.

Usman has consistently maintained a strong relationship with Khabib Nurmagomedov throughout his career. He has recognized Nurmagomedov’s contributions to MMA and his undefeated fighting record. Beyond their in-ring achievements, both fighters were managed by Ali Abdelaziz during their championship reigns. This shared management helped guide their careers and strategic fight selections.

Despite Makhachev’s continued recognition of Usman as the next contender, the welterweight division has shown resistance to the matchup. #7-ranked Sean Brady indicated that Usman was the least deserving option for a title shot. Brady pointed instead to Michael Morales as a suitable challenge. Ian Garry also positioned himself as a strong contender following his win over Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar.

Kamaru Usman has already returned to training as he awaits an official matchmaking decision regarding a potential title opportunity. His activity suggests preparation for a possible championship assignment in the near future. Islam Makhachev, meanwhile, has indicated readiness to face any upcoming challenge in his new division. The situation leaves multiple contenders under consideration as the division moves forward.

Is Kamaru Usman the biggest threat to Islam Makhachev’s welterweight throne?

Kamaru Usman was widely regarded as one of the most dominant welterweight champions in UFC history. He held the championship from 2019 to 2022 and successfully defended the belt five times during that span. Throughout his reign, Usman consistently defeated elite contenders at the top of the division. His title run included victories over Colby Covington, Jorge Masvidal, and Gilbert Burns.

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

Usman’s dominance has also been acknowledged at the highest level of the promotion. UFC CEO Dana White has previously identified him as the greatest welterweight champion of all time. That recognition helped set the stage for Islam Makhachev to identify Usman as a priority matchup. The Dagestani star has since stated that Usman represents the biggest threat to his title reign.

He’s more experienced. You saw his last fight, when he beat Buckley. He was a contender too, a lot of hopes were placed on him, but Kamaru ran through him and people just forgot about him. Same with these guys, they’re still young. Kamaru will run them over with experience. I think he’s still in a good condition.

Islam Makhachev via Ushatayka

Usman’s style differs from many of Makhachev’s previous opponents. Charles Oliveira and Renato Moicano were BJJ specialists with striking backgrounds, which allowed Makhachev to rely on wrestling control. Dustin Poirier and Jack Della Maddalena, meanwhile, were primarily strikers who faced similar grappling pressure. Usman’s combination of wrestling and striking could present a challenge for Makahchev.

Makhachev has previously faced a well-rounded opponent with similar attributes. His first meeting with Alexander Volkanovski featured moments when adaptability and balance posed challenges. Even at 38 years of age, a fighter with Usman’s blend of skills could exploit comparable openings. That dynamic may allow the ‘Nigerian Nightmare’ to identify and pressure gaps in the Dagestani champion’s game plan.

Also Read: