Makhachev's manager ends the discussion and names the Russian's first challenger in the UFC welterweight division.

Makhachev celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

Ali Abdelaziz has already decided who will be the first challenger to Islam makhachev in the welterweight division (up to 77 kg). After defeat Jack Della Maddalena After winning his second UFC belt, the Dagestani fighter saw a line of potential challengers forming. Still, his manager isn't hiding the champion's next fight.

See too

Does he have a future? Ilia Topuria trains alongside former Real Madrid star; watch

McGregor receives a challenge that could put him in contention for a UFC title.

Carlos Prates claims to have accepted a fight against Charles Oliveira's conqueror and reveals when he expects to return to the UFC octagon.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Ali Abdelaziz made it clear that Kamaru Usman should be the next name on the route of Islam makhachev, urging calm among the other contenders for the belt.

"Usman is next, everyone needs to relax," wrote Ali Abdelaziz.

Usman is next everyone needs to relax

- Ali Abdelaziz (@ AliAbdelaziz00) November 25, 2025

Ali Abdelaziz is the business partner of Islam Makhachev and Kamaru Usman.

There at a UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

The choice of Kamaru Usman as the first challenger of Islam makhachev There may be motivations that go beyond the Nigerian's merits inside the octagon. In addition to representing the Dagestani champion, Ali Abdelaziz is also responsible for managing Usman's career, which naturally facilitates any contractual negotiations with the UFC.

Retired from MMA with a record of one win and three losses, Abdelaziz built his reputation outside the cage. At the helm of the Dominance MMA agency, he manages the careers of several prominent UFC names, including... Islam makhachev, Kamaru Usman, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Magomed Ankalayev, Justin gaethje, Henry Cejudo e Gilbert Durinho, Among others.