Makhachev’s Next Welterweight Defense Unsettled as Manager Pushes Usman Over Garry

Overview

• Ali Abdelaziz, who manages Islam Makhachev and Kamaru Usman, said both fighters want to face each other and argued Usman is the champion’s toughest stylistic test.
• Abdelaziz criticized Ian Machado Garry’s résumé and marketability, contending recent performances do not justify a title shot.
• The UFC has not announced Makhachev’s first welterweight title defense or date, though May or June timing and a possible Newark event have been mentioned without confirmation.
• Garry, ranked No. 3 after 2025 wins over Belal Muhammad and Carlos Prates, has respectfully called out Makhachev and insists he can dethrone the pound-for-pound leader.
• Reports reference unconfirmed chatter that Michael Morales could be considered later this year, with contenders such as Shavkat Rakhmonov and Carlos Prates also in the mix.