There are countless “what if” matchups that MMA fans dream about—fights that stir the imagination but rarely become reality. But now, one of those fantasy matchups might actually be in the works. Former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman has just added more fuel to the fire of one of MMA’s most exciting hypothetical clashes. In a recent statement, Usman hinted at a potential superfight with current lightweight kingpin Islam Makhachev—if both men win their upcoming bouts.
Speaking on the Pound-for-Pound Podcast, Henry Cejudo asked Kamaru Usman if he was interested in fighting Islam Makhachev. ‘Nigerian Nightmare’ is back in the mix, and he’s not just thinking about one win, he’s eyeing a blockbuster. The former welterweight king is set to face Joaquin Buckley, a red-hot, explosive striker who’s been on a serious rise. A big win could launch Usman straight into the title conversation again.
Meanwhile, Islam Makhachev is preparing to jump up to welterweight following Belal Muhammad’s recent loss to Jack Della Maddalena. With the welterweight belt now around JDM’s waist, Islam sees an opportunity to chase double champ status by challenging for a second title.
“It’s one of those things that we have to talk about. Obviously, that’s a blockbuster fight former pound-for-pound and the current pound-for-pound champion. I love those guys. Islam, Khabib, I love them all unlike the situation with Belal…I think Islam and I are mature enough to have a conversation about that,” he said.
Kamaru Usman open to Islam superfight if he beats Buckley and Islam beats JDM.😳👀
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 13, 2025
"We're Mature Enough" – Usman Hints at Superfight with Islam
"It's one of those things that we have to talk about. Obviously, that's a blockbuster fight — former pound-for-pound and the current… pic.twitter.com/Icm77AiNdY
Indeed, it would be interesting to see Usman take on Makhachev. Despite his respect for Team Khabib, Usman wouldn’t hesitate to bring the heat if that cage door closed behind them.
Islam Makhachev Will Fight Jack Della Maddalena Soon
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The lightweight champion was instantly interested in Jack Della Maddalena’s welterweight victory. Though teammates are not, both men have an instant rapport due to their Australian heritage. Determined to uphold that reputation, the new welterweight champ made it plain that he’d welcome the fight against Islam Makhachev, seeking to even the score for Volkanovski’s previous losses.
Makhachev did not remain quiet; he responded with a scathing post, implying that he is willing to go up a division to pursue gold. He wants to make history as a two-division champion, but JDM could spoil his plans with an upset. For now, the pictures look as if Makhachev wins, and if ‘Nigerian Nightmare’ wins his next fight against Usman, he could get a title shot, especially if Usman performs well in his next fight.
Also Read: UFC Legend Believes No One Will Strip Islam Makhachev’s Title Thanks To Khabib Nurmagomedov
