Usman vs Masvidal Preview
Kamaru Usman and Jorge Masvidal will headline the UFC 261 in their second meeting. The two already met once at the UFC 251 in a match that saw Masvidal stepping in on short notice to replace Gilbert Burns, who had to withdraw due to health issues. Usman won the battle via unanimous decision after five rounds, not having any trouble against Gamebred, who remained on his feet until the end of the contest. The situation is different now, with Masvidal having enough time to prepare and analyze Usman’s tactics. We expect nothing but 100% from both fighters, and even though the Nigerian stands as a massive favorite, this event should be one of the best this year.
Usman vs Masvidal Schedule
- Where: VyStar Veterans Memorial, Jacksonville, Florida
- When: Saturday, April 24, 10pm ET
- How to Watch: ESPN+
Usman vs Masvidal Odds
| Usman | Masvidal |
|---|---|
| -400 | +300 |
Kamaru To Confirm his Status of the Best
Usman has 17 straight wins, and yet he isn’t appreciated enough as other fighters in the UFC. We are free to say that the Nigerian Nightmare is one of the most dominant guys in the organization over the past 10 years. The way he dispatches his rivals is beautiful to watch as he pushes the tempo, constantly pressuring the opponent and going forward until he eventually rolls over the guy in front of him.
We saw that even if he opens the match a bit slower, as it happened against Gilbert Burns, he will find a way to take down the rival. Usman’s biggest strength is his fantastic stamina and cardio, and in the moments when others struggle to keep on the tempo, he shifts into a higher gear.
Kamaru didn’t defeat Masvidal via stoppage, and he wants to change that on this occasion, proving that he is currently untouchable for anyone in the division.
Masvidal’s Chance to Take the Gold
Gamebred was always about money and pride. That is the main reason why the fans love this guy. However, he is now in a situation that might bring him eternal glory, as he faces the champion. Masvidal has one belt, BMF, but that is nowhere near this one.
If he makes an upset, the veteran will complete one of the strangest and most colorful stories ever in professional sports. From streets and backyards to the top of the world.
After winning three in a row, against Darren Till, Ben Askren, and Nate Diaz, Masvidal lost to Usman in July last year. As we explained, he didn’t have too much time to prepare properly, but even so, he managed to stay on his feet.
Prediction
Usman is the big favorite, and to be honest, he is better than Masvidal, regardless of our affection and sympathies for the same. Usman will win this one, probably in the same manner as the previous, via decision. Even though Gamebred had enough time to make a gameplan and work on his physical condition, he is still below the champion, who is arguably one of the best welterweights in the history of MMA.
Pick: Usman wins
