Overview
- Usman said UFC executive Hunter Campbell responded 'maybe not' to his push to face welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, indicating the promotion prefers a different direction.
- He revealed the UFC proposed an alternative matchup with former middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis, potentially at 185 pounds.
- Usman emphasized he will accept only 'meaningful' bouts that move him back toward a title opportunity rather than fighting without clear stakes.
- The former long‑reigning welterweight champion returned to the win column with a decision over Joaquin Buckley in June 2025 after a prior short‑notice move to middleweight against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294.
- He voiced confusion over the UFC’s booking process and noted the June 14 White House event still lacks finalized fights, with some reporting tying his comments to unconfirmed rumors of Campbell’s expanded operational role.