UFC: Nigeria’s Kamaru Usman retains Welterweight title

Welterweight champion Kamaru Usman says he has more tools in his toolbox after retaining his title with a unanimous decision victory over Jorge Masvidal at UFC 251 in Abu Dhabi in the early hours of Sunday.

Masvidal, who was drafted in to face Usman at just six days’ notice after the Brazilian Gilbert Burns tested positive for COVID-19, ultimately couldn’t find an answer to Usman’s powerful wrestling game.

Usman’s gritty display earned him scores of 50-45, 50-45, 49-46 from the three judges after five gruelling rounds.

“Jorge is a tough guy and I give him credit for that,” said Usman.

“They call him ‘Gamebred’ for a reason – he’s always game to fight.

“I’m just a level better. I have more tools in the toolbox.” Punch