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Kamaru Usman believes he can defeat Islam Makhachev in UFC

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 2:30 PM

Last updated Aug 18, 2026

Kamaru Usman believes he can defeat Islam Makhachev in UFC

Summary

Kamaru Usman expressed confidence in his ability to challenge UFC champion Islam Makhachev, citing a favorable matchup. Usman, who recently fought at UFC Fight Night 281, criticized the choice of Ian Machado Garry as the No. 1 contender for Makhachev's title. Despite believing he poses more problems than other welterweights, Usman acknowledged the challenge in securing this fight against Makhachev, who recently defended his belt against Garry at UFC 330. Usman is currently taking time to strategize his next move in the octagon.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Kamaru Usman challenges Islam Makhachev's title claim.
•Usman believes his skills pose significant issues for Makhachev.
•Makhachev defended his title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330.
•Usman criticized Garry's position as the No. 1 contender.
•Usman is evaluating his future after his recent middleweight fight.

Latest Updates

2:30 PMYahoo Sports — Kamaru Usman convinced he could beat Islam Makhachev: 'I'm telling you guys'

What they're saying

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When taking "the MMA mathematics" into account, Kamaru Usman firmly believes he's the right matchup to dethrone UFC champion Islam Makhachev.
— Yahoo Sports

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