The hardest run of former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman’s skilled combined martial arts profession thus far continued this past weekend in Abu Dhabi.
On the again of consecutive losses to Leon Edwards at 170 kilos, Usman answered the decision to go to the UAE on lower than two weeks’ discover. The matchup, which noticed him substitute Paulo Costa to face the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev, additionally marked a serious profession transfer.
For the primary time in his MMA tenure, “The Nigerian Nightmare” made the stroll as a middleweight. Whereas he’d hoped to safe a fast shot at former opponent Sean Strickland’s title, Usman ultimately fell short on the scorecards.
However given the aggressive nature of the competition, in addition to the truth that it got here on such quick discover, Usman’s inventory actually did not fall in defeat. With that, many are encouraging him to stay on the larger weight.
If he does, he probably will not be quick on opponent choices, and that may seemingly embrace one of many division’s former champions.
Whittaker Urges Usman To Keep At Middleweight
Throughout a latest episode of his MMArcade Podcast, ex-titleholder and present #3-ranked middleweight contender Robert Whittaker gave his tackle the arrival of two recent names into the burden class at UFC 294.
Whereas Usman’s subsequent step is unclear, he did trace in direction of a keep at 185 kilos by calling out Dricus Du Plessis for next year’s milestone UFC 300 event.
However the man whom “Stllknocks” defeated this previous July in Las Vegas additionally would not thoughts sharing the cage with “The Nigerian Nightmare.”
“I’m joyful Chimaev and Usman, that combat did occur. It simply provides extra blood to the highest of the sport. It provides extra boys to the highest of the charts,” Whittaker mentioned. “What’s subsequent for Usman? Is he gonna keep at middleweight? I do not know. However that combat pursuits me. I like that combat. I might combat a middleweight Usman.
“I do not assume it is a dangerous combat to have. Like, what are you gonna do, make Usman combat via ranks thirty to twenty to get to the highest tier?” Whittaker continued. “He undoubtedly deserves to combat on the prime of the charts of the middleweight division. How effectively he’ll do, we’ll see. However seeing recent blood on the prime of the sport, that is attention-grabbing… I hope he stays. Stick round, Usman! It is enjoyable up right here, mate.”
Since a shock knockout loss to Du Plessis at UFC 290, Whittaker has appeared to boast a rejuvenated motivation to return to the highest and as soon as once more maintain the middleweight crown in his possession.
With Usman vowing to make an identical comeback within the aftermath of his third straight setback, maybe they’re going to have the possibility to bounce again on the different’s expense subsequent yr.
I dared 2 be nice & fell quick. Typically that is the journey of life. I prey I by no means complain concerning the playing cards I’ve been dealt 4 I’ve been blessed past my wildest desires Alhamdulilah 4 all the things. We return 2 the drafting board &Insha Allah we’ll be again 🫶🏿#UFC294 #GREATFUL pic.twitter.com/UWtOX0RSwA
— KAMARU USMAN (@USMAN84kg) October 23, 2023
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