Is Kamaru Usman's path to a UFC title shot paved with gold, or is it just fool's gold? Sean Brady certainly doesn't think the former champion deserves it, and he's not holding back his thoughts.
Usman, with a record of 21-4 in MMA and 16-3 in the UFC, is making a play for a title fight after ending a three-fight losing streak with a victory over Joaquin Buckley in June. While rising stars like Michael Morales, Carlos Prates, and Ian Machado Garry are fresh off impressive wins, UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev seems open to the idea of facing Usman next.
Brady, who holds an 18-2 MMA record and 8-2 in the UFC, and who was defeated by Morales at UFC 322, is far from impressed. He believes Usman isn't worthy of a shot at Makhachev.
"There's no way Ian gets it next – I don't think so," Brady stated on his "BradyBagz Show." "First of all, the least deserving of it is Kamaru Usman. I don't know how they're angling this, trying to push him to the title. Mutual friendship, same manager. I understand what they're trying to do, but that's bullsh*t."
Brady doesn't mince words. He believes Morales, who is undefeated at 19-0 and recently defeated Brady, is the most deserving contender. He also ranks Prates as a more worthy challenger. As for Shavkat Rakhmonov, Brady thinks he needs to earn his way back into the title picture after some time on the sidelines.
But here's where it gets controversial... Brady doesn't see Usman as a threat to Makhachev. He points out Usman's recent losing streak, followed by a win against Buckley, and predicts a swift victory for Makhachev. He believes Morales would give Makhachev the toughest fight, while Prates would be easily taken down.
And this is the part most people miss... Brady's perspective highlights the complexities of title contention in the UFC. It's not just about wins and losses; other factors, such as relationships and promotional strategies, can also influence who gets a shot at the belt.
What do you think? Does Usman deserve a title shot? Do you agree with Brady's assessment of the other contenders? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
