At UFC 286, Kamaru Usman didn’t achieve the desired outcome, but he’s receiving comfort from another former champion, Francis Ngannou. In the second bout, Usman was in control for most of the fight, only to be knocked out in the final minute, prompting him to seek a third fight with Leon Edwards to reclaim his title. Finally, Edwards and Usman faced off at the O2 Arena in England, with Edwards having the home advantage.
Kamaru Usman put up a good fight against Leon Edwards in their third face-off, but unfortunately, he couldn’t emerge victorious. However, Usman can take solace in the fact that he’s not alone in defeat. In a show of support, former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, who’s currently a free agent, took to Twitter to remind Usman that true champions aren’t defined by a belt alone. Edwards clinched the win with a majority decision after an intense bout. Even though it’s not the result Usman had hoped for, he can find comfort in the solidarity of his fellow fighters.
AND STILL!!! LEON SILENCES THE DOUBTERS!!!! #UFC286 pic.twitter.com/kPEEGQChss
— UFC (@ufc) March 19, 2023
Ngannou Offers Encouragement to Usman
“You are a champion with or without a piece of metal my brother. Your legacy is already cemented in the history of the sport. @USMAN84kg,” Ngannou wrote. “We are always behind you 🤴🏿🤴🏿🤴🏿🇳🇬🇨🇲 #3kings”
You are a champion with or without a piece of metal my brother. Your legacy is already cemented in the history of the sport. @USMAN84kg
We are always behind you 🤴🏿🤴🏿🤴🏿🇳🇬🇨🇲 #3kings pic.twitter.com/rf0UjzrN1y
— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) March 19, 2023
Francis Ngannou and Kamaru Usman have forged a friendship over the past few years, and despite neither of them currently holding a UFC championship belt, their bond remains unbreakable. The rapid pace of the sport is evident, as both fighters were at the top of their game not long ago. However, their shared experiences as elite athletes will undoubtedly keep them connected for years to come.
