Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman says he remains one of the best fighters in the world, if not the best, despite his recent octagon setbacks, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Speaking on a new podcast with Henry Cejudo, Usman discussed his future plans and his determination to reclaim the UFC welterweight title.
“I’m going to do what it takes to earn that title fight, and then that fight’s going to happen. Doesn’t matter. The boomeyman is on sabbatical right now. That’s all it is. I still got tread left in these tyres, and I’m still going to show that I am one of the best, if not the best in the world,” Usman said.
The ‘Nigerian Nightmare’ last fought at UFC 294, where he lost to Khamzat Chimaev. This defeat marked his third consecutive loss, leading some fans to speculate the end of his career was near. However, Usman has made it clear that he has no intentions of retiring anytime soon.
Usman, currently ranked number one in the welterweight division, expressed his readiness to return for a high-profile matchup. He has called out potential opponents to help him regain momentum before challenging for the UFC gold once again.
At 37, Usman acknowledges that he’s in the latter stages of his career but remains focused on finishing strong, saying, “I know I’m at the tail end, let me finish the career the right way and then decide what else I want to do. So, I’m just getting healthy right now.”
Despite his recent losses, Usman’s dominant run as UFC champion has not been forgotten. He was recently featured in ESPN’s list of the top 10 greatest MMA fighters of the 21st century, cementing his legacy in the sport.
As he prepares for his comeback, all eyes will be on the upcoming UFC 304 main event between current champion Leon Edwards and challenger Belal Muhammad. Usman, who has faced Edwards twice before, will be watching the bout closely as he plots his path back to the title.