Usman's manager rules out Covington and signals that Diaz could fight for the belt if he beats Edwards

N. Diaz confirmed his return to Ultimate after more than a year of inactivity. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

With a scheduled fight against Leon edwards protocols for UFC 262, Nate diaz gained an additional motivational ingredient for its preparation. Out of action since 2019, the 'bad boy' can take the lead Colby covington and earn a chance to compete for the welterweight belt (up to 77kg), if he overcomes the Englishman on May 15th. The information was confirmed by the businessman of Kamaru Usman, group leader.

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“You see, Kamaru is a champion. When this fight is over (UFC 262), he (Usman) will have fought three times since he faced (Colby) Covington. If Colby covington thinks he's going to get a title shot after a win, he's crazy. We have Leon edwards coming off eight consecutive victories. If he beats Nate Daiz, he's the number one contender. If Diaz defeats Edwards, Nate will be the challenger. It's simple”, said Abdelaziz, in an interview with 'MMA Junkie'.

The businessman's speech shows that Usman has moved forward with his old rivalry with Covington. The athletes were involved in one of the biggest disagreements in the recent history of the sport, which was resolved in the UFC 245, when the champion knocked out the North American and retained the title. Thus, Ali reinforces that Colby will have to fight harder if he wants a new chance against the Nigerian.

“Colby is far from the challenger. You can't just beat (Tyron) Woodley and get a chance to face the champion, who's fought three times. He's the number six challenger, maybe. Colby covington He doesn’t like to fight”, he concluded.

After hitting Gilbert Durinho, in February, Usman continues preparing for his second commitment of 2021. Protagonist of UFC 261, Kamaru will try to remain in the highest position in the category in the rematch against Jorge masvidal. The event takes place on April 24th and will feature two more title fights.

Without acting since the tough defeat he suffered against Masvidal in 2019, Diaz, to become champion, will need to interrupt an undefeated streak of nine fights. Leon edwards. English comes from a 'no contest' in front of Belal Muhammad |, in March, when the confrontation was controversially ended by a finger in the eye of the North American.