Despite a change of heart from Kamaru Usman, a possible reunion between him and Jorge Masvidal is far from dead. According to ESPN’s Ariel Helwani, the UFC Welterweight Champion could rule to defend his title against Gamebred once again.
In the recent edition of the DC & Helwani show, Ariel Helwani said he would be shocked if the second fight between Kamaru Usman and Jorge Masvidal does not take place. He also said the transplant is very close to being preserved.
“This fight is not dead. Honestly, I would be surprised if this fight doesn’t happen (between Usman and Masvidal). They are very close to what I was told. “Helwani said.
After a win over Gilbert Burns at UFC 258, Kamaru Usman called out Jorge Masvidal for a rematch. The Nigerian Nightmare said it is willing to give Gamebred all the time for a full training camp and then step into the octagon for their second show.
Usman also took to social media and said he felt generous. The tweet indicated that the 170 lbs reigning champion was willing to resubmit to Gamebred.
That being said, Kamaru Usman then followed up with another man tweet, saying he no longer felt so generous that anyone from the Welterweight division could “get it”.
Who is likely to meet Kamaru Usman next?
Kamaru Usman is likely to fight Jorge Masvidal next in a replay from UFC 251. The pair hit Fight Island a few months ago when Gamebred moved in on a six-day notice and gave Nigerian Nightmare to Distance. However, the Welterweight champion ended up retaining the title after another gritty performance.
There have been discussions about Kamaru Usman and Jorge Masvidal possibly coaching the upcoming season of Ultimate Fighter. Initial talks suggested the UFC move forward with Masvidal taking on his best friend, Colby Covington. However, no agreement was reached to hold the fight.
Meanwhile, there are several other options for Kamaru Usman, including a replay against Colby Covington or one against No. 3 at Welterweight, Leon Edwards. Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson has also been voting for a title picture.
Published 23 February 2021, 11:21 IST