UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman has made his feelings known on why Khamzat Chimaev isn’t the right man to get a potential title shot.
Earlier this week, the UFC announced that Khamzat Chimaev would fight Gilbert Burns at UFC 273 in April. UFC chief Dana White suggested that the bout would be a #1 contender fight, meaning the victor would get a shot at facing Kamaru Usman for the Welterweight title.
However, Usman has reacted to the decision and still feels that the Chechen-born fighter getting a shot at the title is premature. While speaking to MMANews, Usman revealed why he disagreed with White’s suggestion.
“Chimaev hasn’t fought anyone in the top 10 yet” says Kamaru Usman
While only a few fighters in the UFC have risen quicker than Chimaev, Kamaru Usman still feels that the Swiss MMA star is yet to beat someone noteworthy. The Nigerian fighter said, “Well, I mean, this guy (Chimaev) hasn’t even fought in the top 10. He hasn’t even beat anyone yet.“
The 34-year-old Usman also dropped Colby Covington’s name in the hat but admitted that he still loves to compete and wouldn’t mind any challenge that is put in front of him. “I mean, Covington is still standing in the way. So I think there are still a couple more fights that Khamzat has to get through. But, as I say, I love to compete. When that fight presents itself, I’ll be here to compete.” he explained. [via MMA Fighting]
Usman last defending his belt against Covington in November. It was the second time he came out victorious against ‘Chaos’. It was the fifth time he successfully defended his title.
Khamzat, who has a stellar record of 11-0 in this MMA career, last fought at UFC 267 in October 2021. He beat Li Jingliang comprehensively in the first round via submission. On the other hand, Burns last fought at UFC 264 in July 2021, beating UFC veteran Stephen Thompson by unanimous decision.
The two will now meet in the Octagon at UFC 273 in April, with the winner in line to fight for the Welterweight belt.
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