Kamaru Usman Reveals He Never Trained with Nurmagomedov, Makhachev

Kamaru Usman said he has never trained with Islam Makhachev or Khabib Nurmagomedov despite close ties, clarifying dynamics around a potential welterweight title defense. In an interview with The Schmo, Kamaru Usman said, “We actually haven’t been able to train together,” as Islam Makhachev has expressed interest in facing him for the welterweight title. Usman added he never shared the mat with Khabib Nurmagomedov, while all three are connected through manager Ali Abdelaziz. Makhachev won the welterweight belt against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in November. Usman (21-4) beat Joaquin Buckley by unanimous decision in June 2025, his first win since 2021.