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Kamaru Usman: ‘It’s either Sean Strickland or Islam’ Makhachev next with UFC Oklahoma City upset win
MMA Fighting • • general
Key Points:
- Kamaru Usman, former UFC welterweight champion, states that if he wins his upcoming fight against Dricus du Plessis at UFC Oklahoma City, his next bout should be for a UFC title, likely against Sean Strickland or Islam Makhachev.
- Usman is moving back up to middleweight and faces du Plessis, who recently lost the middleweight title to Khamzat Chimaev; Usman previously lost a close decision to Chimaev in October 2023.
- Usman acknowledges that the middleweight division is not necessarily easier than welterweight but feels the move makes sense for his career progression and title opportunities.
- Despite wanting a rematch with Makhachev for the welterweight title, Usman notes that the UFC has significant influence over matchmaking decisions and sees the du Plessis fight as a timely opportunity.
- Usman recognizes the middleweight division is highly competitive with tough contenders like Jared Cannonier, Nassourdine Imavov, and Caio Borralho, emphasizing the challenge ahead regardless of weight class.
