October 22, (THEWILL) – Former welterweight champion, Kamaru Usman, reflected on his recent loss to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294, acknowledging some mistakes, but remaining optimistic about the future.
Speaking to reporters after the fight, Usman admitted he made a crucial error by starting slowly in the 3-round match. “It took me some time but you know that’s the difference in a 3-round fight, you can’t start slow like that,” Usman said. He believes if it was a 5-round fight, he could have turned things around.
Usman said the loss to Chimaev stung, but taught him important lessons – to trust himself and his team again and get back to what worked when he was at the top. “I have to trust myself again. You start to question and doubt yourself and I’ve proven I need to trust myself, get back to my roots,” he explained.
With 3 straight defeats since being dethroned by Leon Edwards, Usman remains the #1 welterweight contender, but is unsure of his next move. However, he emphasised his career is far from over and he can become champion again.
Despite the setback, Usman is staying positive and focused on the future. “I’m not done yet,” he declared.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
