Overcome by Chimaev at UFC 294, Usman gets emotional in a tough outburst about a moment in his career

Kamaru Usman (left) fighting against Khamzat Shimaev (dir.) in UFC 294. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Overcome by Khamzat Shimaev in the majority decision of the judges in the UFC 294, Kamaru Usman surprised when he opened up about his moment in MMA. In an unprecedented scenario, coming from three consecutive defeats, the former welterweight champion (up to 77,1kg.) was emotional in a statement to 'ESPN' and said he questioned his ability in sport. For the weekend's challenge, the Nigerian had less than two weeks of preparation.

“You go years without losing, a long period. Then, he loses two balanced matches. You start to question things and doubt yourself a little. If I can take anything away from this commitment, it's to trust myself and my coaches more. I'll be back. I got off the couch to face a hungry bull like that. Chimaev had a year preparing to reach middleweight (up to 83,9kg). If they gave me a few more rounds, the world would know the true result,” said Usman.

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Substitute for the injured Paulo borrachinha No. UFC 294, Kamaru took on the challenge of facing one of the biggest promises in the history of Ultimate. Without adequate preparation time, the Nigerian managed to make it difficult for his opponent to commit at certain points in the match.

The stumble, however, extends the Nigerian's series of defeats. Now, the fighter has accumulated three setbacks, two of which were in a title fight against Leon edwards at welterweight.

Victorious in his commitment, Usman has plenty of reasons to celebrate. In addition to beating one of the biggest names in recent UFC history, the representative from the United Arab Emirates qualified for the title fight in the group led by Sean Strickland.

Kamaru Usman reflects on his loss to Khamzat Shimaev at #UFC294. pic.twitter.com/eFfEbdZzZZ

- ESPN MMA (@espnmma) October 21, 2023

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