Colby Covington might be an old rival of Kamaru Usman, but he’s backing “The Nigerian Nightmare’s” desire to fight Islam Makhachev.

Usman and Makhachev have shared mutual interest in sharing the Octagon with the UFC Welterweight Championship at stake. This has drawn the ire of some MMA fans who feel younger contenders such as Ian Machado Garry and Michael Morales are more deserving of a title shot. Usman has gone 1-3 in his last four outings.

Makhachev defeated Jack Della Maddalena back in Nov. 2025 to capture the 170-pound gold. His first welterweight title defense hasn’t been made official at this time. While Makhachev has admitted he prefers a showdown with Usman, he has told reporters that he isn’t opposed to fighting other challengers.

Surprisingly, Covington isn’t opposed to the idea of Usman challenging Makhachev. In an interview with Bloody Elbow, Covington said Usman has more of a star factor than the other contenders (h/t MMAJunkie).

“I think he deserves it,” Covington said. “He’s a former champion, he’s been in the sport, he’s made his mark, so it sells. These other kids, there’s just no personality. They couldn’t sell sh*t to flies, and we know how much flies love sh*t. So, I think it makes sense.”

Covington has been pitching a freestyle wrestling match with Usman under the RAF banner. Usman responded by delivering his retro quote to Covington, saying, “I broke your face.” Usman also hinted at accepting the offer to a RAF match in the future.

Whether or not it actually comes to fruition remains to be seen. Covington recently scored a dominant RAF victory over former UFC Middleweight Champion Colby Covington.

Do you think Kamaru Usman will end up getting the UFC welterweight title shot against Islam Makhachev? Will Ian Machado Garry or Michael Morales get the opportunity instead? Sound off in the comments below.