Kamaru Usman believes Islam Makhachev should prioritize a champion vs. champion fight with Belal Muhammad over their friendship, despite opposition from Makhachev’s coach Khabib Nurmagomedov, while also questioning why Arman Tsarukyan is being overlooked for a title shot.
Kamaru Usman seems to prioritize champ vs. champ over friend vs. friend. Following UFC 311, the burning question is, "Who’s next for Islam Makhachev?" With a swift submission victory over Renato Moicano, who filled in last minute for Arman Tsarukyan due to a back injury, Makhachev’s next opponent remains uncertain. Dana White mentioned Tsarukyan needs to earn his shot again.
Usman suggests Makhachev should consider moving up to challenge Belal Muhammad, a frequent training partner. "If I were Islam, I’d pick Belal or Ilia Topuria," Usman shared on the Pound-4-Pound podcast. He believes either matchup would be favorable, even hinting at potential retirement after such a fight.
The idea of fighting Muhammad doesn’t sit well with Makhachev’s coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov. "My heart, not OK," he said. The close relationship makes it difficult for him to prepare Makhachev to face Muhammad.
Usman dismisses this sentiment, urging Makhachev and Muhammad to focus on business rather than personal ties. "They’re not brothers," Usman emphasized. He argues that even friends should fight if it means getting paid.
Belal Muhammad quickly responded to Usman’s comments on social media. "Stop speaking my name until you finally end your losing streak," he tweeted. Their rivalry dates back years when Muhammad was climbing the welterweight ranks during Usman’s championship reign.
Usman lost his title to Leon Edwards, who later dropped it to Muhammad at UFC 304. With three consecutive losses since 2021, Usman likely won’t face Muhammad in the octagon soon.
Regarding other contenders for Makhachev, Usman questions why White is sidelining Tsarukyan despite his impressive track record. Tsarukyan has won nine of his last ten fights and remains a top contender at 155 pounds.
"The reasons behind Arman Tsarukyan’s inability to compete are unclear," Usman noted. He finds it unfair that Tsarukyan is being overlooked despite having earned his spot as a challenger.
For some reason, details about Tsarukyan’s situation remain vague—just a back injury mentioned. Yet everyone seems ready to move past him, which puzzles Usman.