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Peter Akinbo
Former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman was seen making his return to the gym for the first time since his title defeat to Brit Leon Edwards.
In the most recent edition of the UFC Born Brave series, Usman talks about bravery, hardships, and much more. Usman also describes how he felt after Edwards won the title against him.
This marked only the second professional loss of Usman’s impressive career up to this point. Suffering a late shock defeat to Edwards via fifth-round head kick knockout, Usman saw his championship reign slip from his fingers.
The former UFC champion said, “My relationship with hardship is that we are friends because, over time, I understand now that there have to be some hardships to achieve greatness,”
Usman also discusses his routine following his defeat at UFC 278. “Came home the following morning and watched the bout,” he instructed.
“Whether you win or lose, immediately fix your mistakes and return to the drawing room. The ability to overcome this turmoil, face it head-on, and triumph over this turmoil and this adversity is a success.”
Usman suffered his first defeat in the octagon after being caught by Edwards with a flawless head kick. After losing his crown, the former champion expressed relief and laughed with Joe Rogan. But Edwards didn’t believe his response to be sincere.
Seven years had passed since their first meeting when Edwards lost by unanimous decision. Since then, both guys have advanced significantly, with Edwards winning 10 straight races to earn his title shot ultimately. Edwards acknowledged that he anticipates a rematch with Usman for his first championship defense because their series is tied at one match apiece.
Usman has said that he will come back with ‘vengeance’ but faces fitness struggles to be ready for the trilogy bout.