Nigerian UFC fighter Kamaru Usman (R) says he is not planning on retiring anytime soon despite his second loss to Leon Edwards during UFC 286, at the O2 Arena in London, England.

UFC: No Plans To Quit Fighting, Says Kamaru Usman

Last updated Mar 20, 2023

Nigeria’s former UFC Welterweight champion Usman Kamaru made it clear that he is not planning on retiring anytime soon in spite of his second loss to Leon Edwards at the O2 Arena in London, England.

Edwards defeated Usman for the second time in a row at UFC 286 on Saturday night in London, England, winning their trilogy series 2-1.

“I think I did enough to win the fight, but I knew it was a close fight. Great game plan, great game plan,” Usman said.

Action during UFC 286 fight between Kamaru Usman (L) and Leon Edwards (R) at the O2 Arena.

“I’ve always said it from the start: I knew I’d see Leon again, and we did it. I’m not done. I’ll see him again, but he put on a hell of a game plan,” Usman added.

“I’ve always given him props for everything he’s been able to accomplish. He’s a brother, like myself. Much respect. London, you’ve got yourself a hell of a guy, a great champion. I’m going to get back with my coaches because I’m one of those guys, I can’t sit for too long, I start getting antsy.”

“I’m going to talk to my coaches. I’ll get back, sit back, relax and spend some time with my daughter,” Usman said.

Read more: UFC: Edwards Retains Welterweight Title After Beating Usman

The Nigerian Nightmare, noted that fighters go through a lot while preparing for their fight just to thrill their fans.

“You get to come here and get entertained by us, but a lot of you guys don’t know what we go through in training camp just to prepare for this, just to get in there and give you guys a show,’’ Usman added.

“So guys, much respect to the fighters. We put it on the line for you guys each and every time.”

In a follow-up statement on Twitter, Usman vowed to “go back to work.”

“A special thank you to my management, family, friends, and fans,” Usman said on Twitter.

“I appreciate each and every one of you. Wasn’t my night but as always, we go back to work. Congratulations Leon Edwards great work.”

A special thank you to my management, family, friends, and fans. I appreciate each and everyone of you. Wasn’t my night but as always we go back to work. Congratulations @Leon_edwardsmma great work 🤜🏿🤛🏿👏🏿

— KAMARU USMAN (@USMAN84kg) March 19, 2023

NAN/Obinna Aniakor.