Kamaru Usman Targets Two-Division UFC Glory After UFC 322

BREAKING: Kamaru Usman, the former welterweight champion, has revealed his ambitious plans to retire as a two-division UFC champion during an exclusive interview with TMZ Sports. This announcement comes just days ahead of the pivotal UFC 322 main event taking place at Madison Square Garden in New York City on Saturday, November 11, 2023.

Usman, 38, is closely watching the upcoming title fight between Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev. Makhachev, who relinquished his lightweight title to compete in the welterweight division, is seen by Usman as a formidable opponent. “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. “I think he’s just done it longer. We’ll see what happens. But of course, I’m looking to get in there and potentially test myself against the winner.”

Usman’s last appearance in the Octagon was a victory over Joaquin Buckley by unanimous decision in June 2023. Although he has not set a specific timeline for his return, he is eager to reclaim the welterweight title and pursue a dual championship status.

“The storybook would be to go and grab this title, then go and grab the other title,” Usman explained, referring to his desire to capture the middleweight title currently held by Khamzat Chimaev. This potential matchup is particularly intriguing as Chimaev handed Usman one of his four career losses, albeit in a closely contested fight taken on short notice.

“I think that’s an intriguing fight,” Usman added. “That’s a compelling fight that everybody would want to see on a full training camp to go out and challenge him.” His determination to become a two-division champion is evident as he aims to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.

As the UFC 322 main event approaches, all eyes will be on Usman, who remains hopeful that the results will align in his favor. “Two-division champion. That’s the only thing that is not on the resume,” he remarked, emphasizing his commitment to achieving this milestone.

Fans and analysts alike are buzzing with anticipation as Usman’s next steps could redefine his already illustrious career. Stay tuned for updates as UFC 322 unfolds this weekend!