Kamaru Usman entered his rematch with Jorge Masvidal as a historic favorite. “Gamebred” returned to the Octagon for the first time since the original bout, looking to prove taking that fight on a week’s notice limited his abilities in unseating one of the greatest welterweights in UFC history.
Masvidal worked a lot of kicks early. Fainting strikes and trying to get the champ to bite on something. Two minutes in, the champ landed a thudding right hand that had the challenger trying to laugh it off. Masvidal attempted a flying knee but it opened him up to a body lock and takedown combo from Usman. The 36-year-old used the cage and was able to get back to his feet. Back on the feet, both landed noteworthy strikes. The champ seemed to be loading up a bit and missing some wide and wild punches Close round that will hinge on how much the judges give to Usman’s takedown and groundwork since Masvidal landed solid strikes off his back in those moments.
The second round started with more kicks from Masvidal as Usman tried to work his boxing. And work it he did landing an absolutely crushing left hand that put the Floridian to sleep before he even hit the mat. The shots after were a mix of hate and referee Herb Dean being in poor position. It is the first knockout loss of Masvidal’s 49-fight career. An absolute exclamation point on this rivalry that is officially put to bed. Usman has now won three of his last four title defenses by knockout after a long run of victories by decision.
“The Nigerian Nightmare” is now earmarked for another rematch with a heated rival. This time with Colby Covington, in a fight likely to happen in the summer. After nine months away from the sport, it will be fascinating where Masvidal goes next. He is still one of the biggest stars in the sport and the BMF champion. He will no doubt be in a money fight again some time soon.
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