Usman willing to step in as UFC 310 replacement

Former welterweight champion, Kamaru Usman, has expressed openness to stepping in for UFC 310, potentially facing Shavkat Rakhmonov for the interim title. This opportunity comes after champion Belal Muhammad withdrew due to a foot infection. Rakhmonov, undefeated at 18-0, has been lobbying for this matchup, believing Usman (20-4) could be a worthy opponent to maintain the card’s integrity.

Usman, who is currently on a three-fight losing streak, last competed in October 2023 against Khamzat Chimaev. Despite his recent setbacks, he remains one of the division’s elite fighters and has previously accepted short-notice bouts, including a memorable title defense against Jorge Masvidal in July 2020. 

In a recent podcast appearance, Usman indicated he would be ready to answer the call if the UFC reached out. He said: “The UFC knows who to call when that situation happens. And if they do give me a call, I’m going to answer the call, we’ll get a couple of things straight and if we’ve got to do it, we’ve got to do it. I don’t shy away from any of that”. 

He also clarified that he and Rakhmonov were not teammates but only used to visit the same gym in the past. 

Rakhmonov’s manager confirmed that discussions are ongoing regarding potential opponents for UFC 310, and the Kazakh fighter is eager to secure his title shot after submitting Stephen Thompson at UFC 296 last December. He views a fight with Usman as not only significant for his career but also beneficial for the division. 

The possibility of this matchup could do a great deal for both men. Usman’s reputation as one of MMA’s greatest champions adds weight to the contest, while Rakhmonov’s rising star status presents an intriguing dynamic. Both fighters have much to gain: Usman could reclaim relevance in the title picture, possibly winning it, while Rakhmonov could solidify his status as a top contender by defeating a former champion.