Makhachev Wins UFC Welterweight Title, Calls Out Usman

Islam Makhachev captured the UFC welterweight championship with a dominant unanimous decision victory over Jack Della Maddalena in the main event of UFC 322 at Madison Square Garden in New York on Saturday night, becoming the promotion's latest two-division titleholder. Immediately after the win, the Russian fighter named former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman as his preferred opponent for his first defense of the 170-pound belt, setting the stage for a high-profile matchup despite Usman's uneven recent form.

Makhachev's performance against Della Maddalena showcased his grappling prowess, controlling the fight for five rounds and solidifying his transition from lightweight to welterweight. The 33-year-old, who vacated his lightweight title to pursue this opportunity, expressed confidence in facing Usman, stating that the Nigerian fighter's experience and skill set would provide a true test. "Usman makes sense," Makhachev said post-fight, highlighting Usman's credentials as a former dominant champion.

At 38 years old, Usman has gone 1-3 in his last four bouts, with losses to Leon Edwards twice and Khamzat Chimaev, but his unanimous decision win over Joaquin Buckley in June has...