Kamaru Usman is worked up to finish his trilogy towards Leon Edwards.
The previous UFC welterweight champion was on his option to a sixth protection at UFC 278 this previous Saturday earlier than the challenger completed the struggle in its remaining minute with a surprising head kick. The loss was his first within the UFC and simply his second as knowledgeable, however Usman has stayed constructive within the aftermath.
“It was a terrific shot,” mentioned Usman in a current interview with TMZ Sports activities. “A fantastic shot. I’m speaking Hail Mary within the Tremendous Bowl, final 10 seconds. That was a terrific shot, man. Hats off to Leon.
“It’s not laborious in any respect [to watch the fight],” continued Usman. “Have you learnt how many individuals I’ve carried out that to? It’s not laborious in any respect. It occurred. That’s the attractive factor about this sport — that occurs, however we overlook what was really going down in that struggle. So I’m not down in any respect. It’s nearly like everyone seems to be extra unhappy about it than I’m. Everyone seems to be extra emotional about it than I’m. For me, it’s a great factor as a result of it lets me know that individuals care, that persons are invested.”
Usman and Edwards at the moment are 1-1 in fights, with the ‘Nigerian Nightmare’ defeating ‘Rocky’ by unanimous choice of their first bout at UFC on FOX over seven years in the past. UFC president Dana White mentioned at his post-fight press convention he desires Usman vs. Edwards 3 subsequent and advised it occur at Wembley Stadium in London.
The newly topped champion has set his sights on his first protection being on his turf, particularly since he’s now the second British fighter to win a UFC championship. Although different choices—such because the winner of Khamzat Chimaev vs. Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal have been floated—Usman sees himself as the one one who must be reverse of Edwards when he returns to the Octagon. And he’s greater than able to journey to London for an opportunity at reclaiming what was as soon as his.
“What else is smart? I imply, take a look at the division,” mentioned Usman. “What else is smart? It’s completely what’s going to occur subsequent. I talked to Dana and we’re going to see. I’ll let him do his job and we’re going to see what date is smart. It’s going to be the highest of subsequent yr.
“I used to be going to try to squeeze one on this yr, nevertheless it’ll most likely be prime of subsequent yr and I need to go to England,” continued Usman. “I’ve been feening to go to England. I really feel like England is my second house now. England is half Africa. Folks don’t know that, nevertheless it’s half Africa. So it’s time to go over there and entertain my English individuals, and what higher story? You couldn’t write this any higher. So I’m excited to see what’s subsequent, and we will certainly determine one thing out.”
