Reigning UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has expressed interest in moving up to welterweight, setting his sights on former 170-pound king Kamaru Usman. Speaking ahead of his fight against Jack Della Maddalena (JDM) at UFC 322, Makhachev revealed that if he successfully defends his title, a potential super-fight with Usman could be next on his radar.

Makhachev stated that Usman’s impressive legacy in the welterweight division, including his record number of title defenses, makes him an ideal next opponent. “After Jack I think Kamaru Usman. He have most title defenses in welterweight. Now he’s in a good position,” Makhachev said.

The Potential Clash of Champions

If the bout materializes, it would be one of the most intriguing matchups in recent UFC history. Usman, a former welterweight champion known for his wrestling and power striking, remains one of the sport’s elite competitors. Meanwhile, Makhachev has dominated the lightweight division with his grappling-heavy style and continues to prove his all-around evolution as a fighter.

A showdown between the two would pit two of the most dominant wrestlers of their respective divisions against each other. With Makhachev already showing interest in becoming a two-division champion, and Usman still among the top welterweights, the matchup could be a defining moment for both men’s legacies.

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What Comes Next

For now, Makhachev’s focus remains on defending his title against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322. However, if he emerges victorious, the UFC could see another champion-versus-former-champion bout that would captivate fans around the world. Usman, who last competed at middleweight against Khamzat Chimaev, could find himself back in the spotlight with this potential challenge from Makhachev.

A victory for Makhachev at UFC 322 might just set the stage for one of the biggest crossover fights in modern UFC history.

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