Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman has hinted at a possible comeback to the octagon, potentially to “save” the UFC.
Speculation has grown around a potential matchup between the Nigerian fighter and Kazakhstan’s Shavkat Rakhmonov, although details remain unconfirmed.
Usman, who once seemed unbeatable with a remarkable 19-fight win streak, appeared unstoppable until 2022, when he encountered Jamaican-born Leon Edwards.
Edwards delivered a shocking head kick that resulted in a knockout victory, abruptly ending Usman’s reign.
The two faced off again on March 18, 2023, with Edwards solidifying his dominance by defeating Usman once more, leaving fans questioning the future of the fighter known as the “Nigerian Nightmare.”
Since then, Usman has struggled to regain his footing. Most recently, he faced yet another setback in a fight against rising star Khamzat Chimaev on October 21 in Abu Dhabi.
Usman’s fans, who once cheered him through a storied career, have been left waiting for nearly a year, hoping to see the fighter return to his former glory.
A Return Against Shavkat Rakhmonov?
Originally slated to face Belal Muhammad in a highly anticipated main event, Shavkat Rakhmonov was left without an opponent when Muhammad had to withdraw due to a foot injury.
Rumors are now swirling that Usman may step in, with whispers of a potential clash between him and Rakhmonov creating a buzz among fans.
If confirmed, it could mark the comeback that Usman’s followers have eagerly awaited.
A Journey from Wrestling to the UFC
Usman’s career began in wrestling, a sport he took up in high school before competing at the national level. During his university years, he qualified for the NAIA national tournament in 2007 but was prevented from participating by an unexpected snowstorm.
By 2010, Usman claimed the NCAA Division II national wrestling title in the 174-pound weight class, finishing a season with an impressive 30 consecutive wins.
From MMA Debut to UFC Stardom
Usman made his professional MMA debut in 2012, earning five wins and one loss while competing in regional promotions. In 2015, he joined the reality show The Ultimate Fighter, a springboard for emerging MMA talent.
In the final match of The Ultimate Fighter Season 21, Usman defeated Hayder Hassan with a submission in the second round, earning a contract with the UFC and a Performance of the Night bonus—signaling the start of an extraordinary UFC career.
