Usman confirms Durinho as his toughest opponent, but says: 'It's not his time yet'

K. Usman (left) will try to keep the belt against G. Durinho in the UFC 258. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Present to put your belt on the line for the third time, Kamaru Usman does not hide respect for Gilbert Durinho, his opponent this Saturday (13), for UFC 258. In an interview with 'half day', with the participation of SUPER FIGHTS, the welterweight champion (up to 77kg.) admitted that his former training partner will be his most complicated commitment in his MMA career. The ‘Nigerian Nightmare’, however, showed confidence in the positive result.

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“For sure, right now, he is the most dangerous guy in the division. Firstly, because there is the element of him having felt me ​​before. Obviously it was training, but he already felt me. He has an idea of ​​the way I move. He is ultra confident. He’s the man”, said the champion.

Still praising his rival this weekend, Usman stated that the Brazilian is not a great challenge just because of his grappling qualities. With examples, the Nigerian highlighted the reason that makes the Niteroi native a high-risk opponent.

“It’s not because of your grapple. Demian Maia is probably the best grappler that already existed in MMA (they exchanged forces in 2018). I faced Serginho Moraes (2017), another grappler incredible. He (Durinho) is not only dangerous because of his grapple. He's dangerous because he's felt me ​​before and because of his great confidence that he can win the belt. So, it’s my job to let him know that it’s not his time yet,” Kamaru said.

Undefeated in his career in Ultimate, Usman will have the opportunity to make history this Saturday. If he overcomes the Brazilian in the main fight, the champion will surpass Georges St-Pierre's record of 13 consecutive victories.

At 33 years old, Usman has 18 commitments as a professional in MMA, with 17 wins and one setback. Durinho, 34, has 19 positive results and three negative results, in 22 appearances.