Colby Covington Supports Rival Kamaru Usman Getting First Shot at Islam Makhachev

Colby Covington believes former champion Kamaru Usman deserves the next welterweight title shot against Islam Makhachev, citing a lack of compelling alternatives among current contenders. This comes as Makhachev’s manager initially dismissed a potential fight with Ian Machado Garry, suggesting they were pursuing a “much bigger” opportunity.

Covington Highlights Usman’s Marketability

“I think he deserves it,” Covington told Bloody Elbow. “He’s a former champion, he’s been in the sport, he’s made his mark. So, it sells, you know? These other kids, there’s just no personality. They couldn’t sell s— to flies and we know how much flies love s—.”

Covington acknowledged that the final decision rests with the UFC, emphasizing that fighters can only prepare for the path laid out for them. He also expressed a similar sentiment regarding the overall state of the welterweight division when discussing his own potential return to competition.

Lack of Drawing Power in Welterweight Division

“Most of these fighters at welterweight can’t draw money with a green crayon and a white piece of paper,” Covington stated. This assessment underscores his belief that Usman’s established name and history provide a more marketable matchup for Makhachev than other rising contenders.

Usman’s Potential Path Back to the Title

While Kamaru Usman has indicated the UFC may be hesitant to immediately grant him another title opportunity, Covington’s support highlights the potential for a lucrative and compelling fight. Usman last competed in July 2025, securing a win over Joaquin Buckley, and remains a significant draw in the welterweight division.

Islam Makhachev recently became a two-division champion with a dominant win over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, setting the stage for his first defense of the welterweight title.

Usman Sees Similarities Between Makhachev and Covington

Usman himself has compared Makhachev to his longtime rival, Colby Covington, noting the well-rounded skill set of both fighters. “The last time I felt that was Colby Covington,” Usman said on the Pound 4 Pound podcast. “That’s when I was like you’ve got a guy who can wrestle as good as you, a guy who could grapple just as good, a guy that can strike just as well.”