Islam Makhachev demands Kamaru Usman to wait in line for the UFC welterweight championship.

In the chaotic whirlwind that is the UFC’s welterweight division, a storm is quietly gathering. At the center of this storm stand two elite warriors: Islam Makhachev, the former UFC lightweight champion aiming for two-division glory, and Kamaru Usman, the former welterweight king eager to reclaim his throne. But with the title picture rapidly evolving, Makhachev has made one thing clear: Usman will have to earn his shot the hard way.

The Comeback of a Legend

Kamaru Usman (21-4 MMA, 16-3 UFC) recently snapped a three-fight losing streak in dramatic fashion, dominating Joaquin Buckley in the main event of UFC on ESPN 69. Once regarded as the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world, Usman’s legacy is already secured — a lengthy reign as welterweight champion and wins over top-tier contenders like Jorge Masvidal, Colby Covington, and Gilbert Burns speak for themselves.

But Usman is not done yet. In the post-fight press conference, he boldly staked his claim for a shot at the welterweight title — and more specifically, a potential superfight with Islam Makhachev.

“If Islam pulls that one out, former pound-for-pound vs. current pound-for-pound – who doesn’t pay for that?” Usman asked rhetorically.

And indeed, the prospect is tantalizing: two of the most dominant grapplers in UFC history clashing for glory, with legacies on the line.

Islam’s Path to Greatness

Islam Makhachev (27-1 MMA, 16-1 UFC), the spiritual and stylistic heir to Khabib Nurmagomedov, has taken his dominance to another level. After defeating Charles Oliveira for the lightweight crown and defending it against the likes of Alexander Volkanovski and Renato Moicano, Makhachev vacated his title in 2025 with a new mission in mind: welterweight supremacy.

His eyes are now firmly set on Jack Della Maddalena, the newly crowned welterweight champion and one of the UFC’s most promising talents. Makhachev has requested that the bout take place in November at Madison Square Garden, marking his official debut at 170 pounds.

“I asked [Dana White] if we have some opportunity to fight in Madison Square Garden,” Makhachev told MMA Junkie. “It would be an honor for me to fight in the biggest arena for MMA and boxing.”

With his methodical style, unmatched wrestling, and ever-evolving striking, Makhachev is not only chasing history but aiming to cement his name as one of the greatest fighters of all time.

“Get in Line” — Makhachev Responds to Usman

Despite Usman’s pedigree, Makhachev isn’t handing out free passes. When asked about the potential clash with Usman, Makhachev was respectful — but firm.

“I saw some interview, Kamaru said something. He’s going to be a tough fight, but sounds good,” Makhachev said. “Let’s get the belt and we will see after the fight. But I don’t want to look behind Della Maddalena right now.”

Makhachev’s message was simple: stay busy, stay active.

“He doesn’t have to stay long and wait. He can fight again, beat someone, make some money, and be in the waiting list.”

This statement places Usman squarely in the role of challenger, not legend. Despite his accomplishments, Makhachev views the welterweight hierarchy as something to be earned in real time, not based on past glories.

Ali Abdelaziz: The Manager in the Middle

Interestingly, Ali Abdelaziz manages both fighters. In a rare situation where a manager could be caught between two of his top clients, Abdelaziz seems surprisingly open to the matchup.

“He’s the greatest welterweight of all time,” Abdelaziz said of Usman. “If Kamaru wins, Islam wins, they want to fight – I’m going to stay home, and I’m going to be watching from home.”

That level of neutrality might be impossible to maintain, especially if negotiations heat up after Makhachev’s expected bout with Della Maddalena. But for now, Abdelaziz is playing the long game, likely hoping to orchestrate one of the most lucrative fights in UFC history.

What Comes Next for Usman?

Usman now faces a crossroads. If he takes Makhachev’s advice to heart, he may choose to take a fight this summer to solidify his title contention. There are several high-risk, high-reward opponents waiting:

• Shavkat Rakhmonov: The undefeated phenom and one of the scariest fighters in the division.

• Belal Muhammad: A grinding, technical fighter long overdue for a big-name opponent.

• Gilbert Burns (Rematch): A chance to settle unfinished business.

All of these fights could be dangerous, but a decisive win could launch Usman straight into a fight with the Makhachev-Della Maddalena winner.

On the other hand, if Usman waits too long, he risks being leapfrogged by other hungry contenders. At 36, time is not on his side.

Della Maddalena: The Dark Horse Champion

While much of the media buzz surrounds Makhachev and Usman, Jack Della Maddalena is not to be overlooked. With clean striking, high fight IQ, and a tenacious pace, the Aussie is a worthy champion.

If he can defeat Makhachev, Della Maddalena will instantly catapult into superstardom, and a fight with Usman could follow. But if he loses, the division will be wide open for a Makhachev-Usman showdown.

The Superfight Potential

Stylistically, Makhachev vs. Usman is a dream matchup:

• Grappler vs. Grappler

• Former vs. Current pound-for-pound elite

• Dagestan vs. Nigeria

• Legacy vs. Redemption

The fight could co-headline a blockbuster card or even become the centerpiece of a UFC pay-per-view in Abu Dhabi, New York, or Africa.

It also represents something increasingly rare in MMA: a fight between two generational talents, both with legitimate claims to the title of greatest of their era.

Conclusion: The Waiting Game Begins

For now, Islam Makhachev is keeping his focus sharp on Jack Della Maddalena, the man standing between him and history. But Kamaru Usman, lurking in the shadows, has made his intentions clear.

Will Usman take another fight and climb his way back to the top? Or will he sit, watch, and hope the stars align?

In a sport that rewards activity and narrative, one thing is certain: Islam Makhachev won’t be waiting.

And for Kamaru Usman, the road to redemption just might run through fire.