Former UFC welterweight title challenger Jorge Masvidal has spoken about potential opponents for the reigning divisional champion Islam Makhachev. According to the American fighter, Kamaru Usman poses the biggest threat to the Russian in this weight class.
Masvidal noted that Usman is capable of matching Makhachev in grappling thanks to a combination of wrestling skills, physical attributes, and extensive experience at the highest level. "Usman is a fighter who, in my opinion, can grapple with Makhachev on equal terms. That is his strong suit and where he started. At the same time, Usman is better on the feet, he is bigger, taller, stronger, and far more experienced. He knows how to neutralize his opponent’s attempts to execute techniques, as he did in his fights with Colby," Masvidal said.
The American emphasized that a potential bout with Usman would be the toughest test for Makhachev in the welterweight division.
"This is the most dangerous fight for Makhachev at welterweight. It is a serious step up in the level of opposition. Jack Della Maddalena is good in the clinch and exchanges, but he is nowhere near Usman in terms of defensive skills. This is one of the hardest fights for Makhachev, and I am not sure they would even want to take it," Masvidal added on his podcast.
