Kamaru Usman finds it confusing how MMA fans can behave sometimes. The former UFC welterweight champion is getting ready to step back into the octagon following his defeat to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294 in October. Usman has been involved in a social media feud with the new 170-pound champion Belal Muhammad since UFC 304 in July.
Even though he has recently faced three consecutive losses, Usman draws parallels between his situation and that of other former dominant champions who went through similar struggles. He stresses the toll that consistent high-level performance can take on fighters and expresses disappointment in fans who are quick to dismiss fighters as being past their prime.
Usman’s recent setbacks include a dramatic head kick knockout by Leon Edwards in the closing moments of UFC 278, leading to him losing the championship. In spite of his prior accomplishments, Usman is under pressure to satisfy fans and admires younger fighters who are still at the start of their careers.
He advises aspiring fighters to relish the learning journey and cautions them about the additional responsibilities that accompany being a champion, like press conferences and financial commitments. Usman recognizes the difficulties that accompany success and the impact it has on a fighter’s personal life.
