Former welterweight king Kamaru Usman has made his intentions clear. He wants to fight whoever wins the UFC 322 main event. The Nigerian-American star remains hungry for another shot at gold.
On Saturday, Jack Della Maddalena defends his welterweight title against Islam Makhachev in a high-stakes clash. While the world focuses on that showdown, Usman is already planning his next move. His recent win over Joaquin Buckley reminded fans that he still belongs among the best at 170 pounds.
In a new interview, Usman confirmed that his focus is firmly on the belt and whoever holds it next.
Usman ready to challenge the winner
Usman didn’t hesitate to address his critics. “A lot of people asked, ‘Can he still fight? Is he still that guy?’ I hope I proved that against Buckley,” he said in an interview with MMA Junkie.
The former champion will watch UFC 322 closely. “I’m keeping my eye on this weekend,” he added. “We’ll see who comes out victorious — Della Maddalena or Makhachev. It’s a great fight for both. I’m looking at the winner like, ‘Let’s make it happen.’”
His words showed confidence and a clear message to the division: he’s not done yet.
Focused on legacy and big fights
Usman admitted that his career is entering its final stretch. “I want the biggest, most challenging fights out there,” he said. “I know I don’t have 20 more fights left. Anything can happen. If the next one is that fight, that’s what I want.”
For Usman, it’s no longer about staying active — it’s about defining his legacy. A title fight with the UFC 322 winner could offer him the chance to reclaim his place among the greats.
The “Nigerian Nightmare” is ready to rise again — and the welterweight division should take notice.
