Overview
- Askren publicly argued that former champion Kamaru Usman should not be next for Islam Makhachev’s first welterweight defense.
- Askren endorsed Ian Machado Garry as the deserving contender, pointing to the Irishman’s ranking and 2025 wins over Carlos Prates and Belal Muhammad.
- Makhachev has voiced a preference to face Usman next, calling him his toughest challenge compared with newer contenders.
- Reports indicate Usman’s camp is pushing to make Makhachev vs. Usman happen in 2026, though no bout has been finalized.
- Belal Muhammad questioned Usman’s recent inactivity and alleged shared management influence, and he highlighted Michael Morales as a more earned option.