Kamaru Usman defends Colby Covington. Both are preparing for a rematch in the future?

Kamaru Usman, the former UFC welterweight champion, has recently surprised fans by defending his long-time rival, Colby Covington. Their rivalry has been one of the most heated in the UFC, but Usman’s latest comments about Covington are raising questions about whether the two are preparing for a potential future fight. With Usman recently losing his title and Covington continuing to climb the ranks, fans are wondering if this respect between the two fighters could lead to an inevitable rematch.

Usman’s Unlikely Defense of Covington

Throughout their careers, Kamaru Usman and Colby Covington have exchanged harsh words and intense physical battles inside the octagon. Their first fight in 2019 was a brutal back-and-forth, with Usman coming out on top via a fifth-round TKO. In their second encounter in 2021, Usman dominated Covington even more convincingly, again winning by knockout in the second round. Despite these defeats, Covington remains a formidable opponent in the welterweight division, and Usman has now taken an unexpected step by praising his rival.

“Colby is a skilled fighter, and people often overlook that,” Usman said recently. “I don’t like the guy, but I can’t deny his talents inside the cage. He’s got great cardio, solid wrestling, and a strong game plan. I’ve faced him twice, and I know he’s tough. He’s earned my respect.”

This comment comes as a shock to many, considering the intense animosity that has existed between Usman and Covington. For years, the two have exchanged insults, with Covington often mocking Usman’s heritage and fighting style. Usman, in return, has been just as vocal in his criticism of Covington. However, Usman’s acknowledgment of Covington’s skills now suggests a possible shift in their dynamic, leaving fans wondering if there might be a future where the two men settle their rivalry once and for all.

The Future of Usman vs. Covington

With both fighters continuing their respective careers, it’s impossible to ignore the possibility of a third fight between Usman and Covington. After Usman’s loss to Leon Edwards in 2022, his reign as the welterweight champion came to an end. However, Usman is still highly ranked and is hungry for redemption. On the other hand, Covington’s recent victory over Jorge Masvidal has kept him in the title picture, even if many fans still believe he’s not deserving of another shot at Usman.

Despite their past rivalry, Usman has indicated that he’s open to a potential trilogy fight with Covington. “If the UFC makes it happen, I’m ready,” Usman stated. “There’s unfinished business, and if Colby wants it, I’m more than willing to give him another shot. He may have lost twice already, but he’s still one of the top guys in the division.”

Usman’s comments imply that a future fight with Covington could very well be in the works. With both fighters competing at the highest level of the welterweight division, a third meeting could be one of the biggest events in UFC history. Fans would undoubtedly be excited to see if Covington can overcome his previous losses and finally get his revenge on Usman, or if Usman will continue to dominate their rivalry.

Is This a Strategic Move for Both Fighters?

The surprising defense of Covington by Usman has raised speculation about whether this is part of a larger strategic move. Some believe that Usman’s praise could be a tactic to get inside Covington’s head and play mind games before a potential trilogy fight. Others speculate that Usman is simply acknowledging the truth: Covington is a skilled competitor, and the respect shown is a sign of maturity and growth as a fighter.

For Covington, Usman’s defense could serve as a source of motivation, knowing that his rival recognizes his strengths. It could also ignite the fire within Covington, pushing him to train even harder for a future fight against Usman.

Whether this defense is part of a broader strategy or a genuine acknowledgment of Covington’s abilities, one thing is clear: the rivalry between Kamaru Usman and Colby Covington is far from over. Fans eagerly await what could be the final chapter of this bitter saga.

In conclusion, while Kamaru Usman has defended Colby Covington’s skills, this doesn’t mean that their rivalry is finished. The potential for a future fight remains, and as both fighters continue to compete at the highest level, the possibility of a third encounter looms large. Will Usman’s respect for Covington lead to a more competitive fight, or will he once again prove he’s the superior fighter? Only time will tell, but the anticipation for a future showdown is growing.