Kamaru Usman has outlined his ambitions for the end of his UFC career, indicating a desire to retire as a two-division champion. In an exclusive interview with TMZ Sports, the former welterweight champion discussed his plans ahead of the highly anticipated UFC 322 event, taking place at Madison Square Garden in New York City on November 18, 2023.
Usman, 38, is particularly focused on the main event clash between current champion Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev. Makhachev, who recently relinquished his lightweight title to compete in the welterweight division, represents a significant challenge. “I think [the fight is] a toss-up, but I do think Islam has the grappling edge when it goes down to the ground,” Usman stated. He expressed eagerness to potentially face the winner, noting, “I’m looking to get in there and potentially test myself against the winner.”
Although there is no specific timeline for Usman’s return to the Octagon, he last secured a victory over Joaquin Buckley by unanimous decision in June. Usman humorously mentioned that whether he fights at the White House or his mother’s house, his goal remains clear: reclaiming the welterweight title. “The storybook would be to go and grab this title, then go and grab the other title,” he explained, referring to his aspirations to also capture the middleweight championship.
Currently held by Khamzat Chimaev, the middleweight title is particularly appealing to Usman, especially considering Chimaev handed him one of his four career losses in a closely contested match that Usman took on short notice. “I think that’s an intriguing fight,” Usman remarked. He emphasized the excitement surrounding a rematch, stating, “That’s a compelling fight that everybody would want to see on a full training camp to go out and challenge him.”
Usman’s ambition to become a two-division champion stems from his long-standing success in the UFC. Having held the welterweight title for over three and a half years, he is focused on adding the middleweight title to his accolades. “Two-division champion. That’s the only thing that is not on the resume,” he said, underscoring his desire to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.
As Usman prepares for the next chapter of his career, the outcome of the UFC 322 main event will play a crucial role in shaping his future in the Octagon. Fans eagerly await what could be a thrilling matchup that not only defines Usman’s legacy but also the landscape of the UFC’s welterweight and middleweight divisions.
