Kamaru Usman Explains Why he Thinks Leon Edwards Deserves Title Shot Over Jorge Masvidal

Due to Jorge Masvidal’s incredible 2019 campaign, there’s been extensive talk about “Gamebred” fighting for the UFC’s welterweight crown next. But, the man who holds that crown, Kamaru Usman, believes Leon Edwards is more deserving of a title shot.

Usman weighs-in on who should get the next title shot

After Masvidal quickly put away Ben Askren this past summer, the veteran fighter said he planned to weight for a title shot. But, eventually Masdvidal was booked to fight Nate Diaz at UFC 244 in November, and “Gamebred” won the fight via doctor stoppage.

In the meantime, Colby Covington was tapped to face Usman at UFC 245 this past Saturday, and the latter won that fight via fifth round, stoppage. So, who is next for the champ? While talking about that during the post-fight presser, Usman said this (quote via MMA Junkie):

“There’s a lot of tough guys in the division – a lot, a lot of tough guys,” Usman said, when asked about the possibility of fighting Masvidal. “I mean, let’s be honest: If you’re talking about someone who is deserving, Leon Edwards hasn’t lost since he fought me. He’s been finishing guys and he’s now found myself in a position that I found myself in a little over a year ago, is everyone knew I was one of the toughest guys in the division and they didn’t want to take that gamble and risk on me.”

So what could happen?

There’s no doubt that Edwards has done his part to secure a title shot. As Usman referred to, since Edwards lost via decision to him back in 2015, he’s won eight straight fights. During that time he’s also defeated top tier fighters like Donald Cerrone, Gunnar Nelson and Rafael dos Anjos.

But, from a ranking’s perspective, Masvidal is currently ranked #3 and Edwards is #4. Further, while talking to the media after UFC 245, Dana White said this (quote via MMA Junkie):

“…Yeah, the Masvidal fight vs. Usman, it’s a big deal. He fought (Nate) Diaz for the ‘BMF,’ belt and now to fight for the actual title against the guy who’s tough as nails, it’s fun.”

So, while there’s no question Edwards has been on a serious roll, Masvidal’s star has never been brighter. As a result, if he wants to fight for the belt next, it certainly looks like the UFC will grant him that wish.

But, the big question is, does Masvidal want to fight for the belt next? While he’s said the welterweight title’s on his radar, Masvidal’s also made it clear making as much money as possible is his priority. So, if Nick Diaz does indeed, commit to fighting Masdvidal, that will probably come next for “Gamebred”.