- Kamaru Usman made it clear that he’s not done with Leon Edwards yet but he needs to work on his game first
- “The Nigerian Nightmare” said it wouldn’t be too long before he makes his return
Kamaru Usman came in brimming with confidence that he will reclaim his welterweight title at UFC 286. However, Leon Edwards proved that he wasn’t only a one-shot killer by clinically beating “The Nigerian Nightmare” en route to a majority decision win in their trilogy match.
Despite losing twice in a row, Usman insists he would go back to the drawing board and ensure that he will cross paths with “Rocky” once again.
AND STILL!!! LEON SILENCES THE DOUBTERS!!!! #UFC286 pic.twitter.com/kPEEGQChss
— UFC (@ufc) March 19, 2023
Not done yet
Speaking to Daniel Cormier in his Octagon interview, Usman congratulated Edwards and reassured fans that he will bounce back stronger.
“I think I did enough to win the fight. But you know, I knew it was a close fight. Great game plan. You know, I’ve always said it, from the start, I knew I would see Leon again and we did it. I’m not done, I’ll see him again. But he put on a hell of a game plan and I’ve always gave him props for everything he’s been able to accomplish, just like me. He’s a brother like myself and much respect. London, you got yourself a hell of a guy, a great champion,” the former welterweight champion said.
Sooner rather than later
When asked about the timeframe of his potential return, “The Nigerian Nightmare” said he wouldn’t keep the fans waiting for too long.
“Not too long. I’mma get back with my coaches because, you know, I’m one of those guys, I can’t sit for too long. I start getting antsy. You know, so I’mma talk to my coaches, we’ll get back, sit and relax. Spend some time with my daughter,” Usman added.
On Twitter, Usman said the same thing and concluded that he fought his heart our but things just didn’t go his way that night.
“A special thank you to my management, family, friends, and fans. I appreciate each and everyone of you. Wasn’t my night but as always we go back to work. Congratulations @Leon_edwardsmma great work,” Usman wrote.
A special thank you to my management, family, friends, and fans. I appreciate each and everyone of you. Wasn’t my night but as always we go back to work. Congratulations @Leon_edwardsmma great work 🤜🏿🤛🏿👏🏿
— KAMARU USMAN (@USMAN84kg) March 19, 2023
Judges Ben Cartlidge and Chris Lee both scored the bout 48-46 in favor of Edwards, while David Lethaby had it 47-47 draw. However, if it wasn’t for the champion’s point deduction due to a cage grab in Round 3, it appears that “Rocky” would’ve won via unanimous decision.
#UFC286 Official Scorecard: Leon Edwards (@Leon_edwardsmma) vs Kamaru Usman 👇
All Tonight’s Scorecards ➡️ https://t.co/q2HuGbflzB pic.twitter.com/lkZ8hTbQ66
— UFC News (@UFCNews) March 19, 2023
As it stands, Edwards is now up 2-1 n Usman and it is yet to be known whether he would still be down for another fight.
