Kamaru Usman Explains Why He Wants Colby Covington Over Title Fight

Kamaru Usman explains why he wants to fight Colby Covington instead of getting a title shot as his next fight under the UFC banner.

Many people believe that Usman should be in the running for a title shot after his latest win. He’s fresh off a win over former lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos at The Ultimate Fighter 28 Finale.

It was a dominating performance that continued his ninth straight victory inside the octagon. Before this fight, he was able to defeat former title contender Demian Maia by unanimous decision in the main event of UFC Chile.

This led to UFC President Dana White stating that he would like to see Usman challenge Tyron Woodley for the welterweight title. It turns out that Usman told TMZ Sports in a recent interview that he was offered a certain fight. A contest against the welterweight contender in January.

“I’m gonna go out there and knock out Colby Covington,” Usman said (H/T to MMAFighting).” That right now is the fight. The UFC just called and they offered us the fight. They said Colby Covington in January. You know what I’m gonna do. Of course I accepted. For the fifth time, I’ve accepted the fight. Right now we’re just waiting on him.”

Kamaru Usman Explains His Mindset

The general belief for months now was that once Woodley was cleared to compete again after having his latest surgery then he would fight Covington. This would be his next title defense and expected to take place in the first quarter of 2019. That may change should Usman get his way, which is something that he’s destined to achieve.

“There comes a time where what we do in our careers where we get that one guy. That guy that just makes your blood boil. That really pulls the real savage out of you,” Usman said. “I have to touch him. I have to. I’ve got to bless this dude with my hands. I’ve got to bless him. It’ll be a little sour taste in my mouth to win the belt, win multiple times. Then retire knowing I didn’t put my hands on this dude.”