Nigeria’s UFC fighter, Kamaru Usman hopes of retaining his Welterweight Belt was dashed after he was knocked out cold by opponent, Leon Edwards in the fifth round of their rematch held in Salt Lake City, Utah, United States on Sunday.
Usman who suffered the first takedown of his UFC career in the early round was dominating the encounter up till two minutes to the end of the bout.
A left hand feint from his challenger which was followed by a vicious head kick, sent the ‘Nigerian Nightmare’ to sleep.
The loss comes as a big upset considering that Usman was on the verge of equalling the record of winning 16 consecutive fights set by the UFC Great, Anderson Silva of Brazil who had the longest winning streak.
Meanwhile, the win is Edwards 11th straight win, as he is yet to lose since 2015 when he lost via unanimous decision to Usman.
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This is Usman’s second UFC career loss in 22 fights as the former Champion is noted for his longevity and consistency over the years.
The defeat also sums up a bad day for combat sports fans in Nigeria who witnessed heavyweight boxer, Anthony Joshua losing his rematch to WBA, WBO and IBF Champion, Oleksandr Usyk of Ukraine and now Usman capitulating to Edwards.
It is uncertain if there is a contract for a rematch between both fighters, but the Champion may have to defend his belt against number two ranked fighter in the division, Colby ‘Chaos’ Covington before Usman gets a shot at the Welterweight Belt in the future.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
