Kamaru Usman promises ‘vengeance’ in first statement after losing title in shocking upset at UFC 278

For the first time since 2013, Kamaru Usman is dealing with a loss after he suffered a stunning fifth-round knockout courtesy of Leon Edwards in the UFC 278 main event.

The shocking outcome came just minutes after Edwards unleashed a vicious head kick on Usman that sent him plumb to the ground. Usman was out as he hit the ground while Edwards celebrated the monumental victory as he became UFC welterweight champion.

Following the fight, Usman released his first statement on social media after he was taken to a local hospital for precautionary reasons after the brutal knockout ended his title reign.

“Champs can be a pain sometimes,” Usman said. “But we bounce back and come with vengeance! !”

The result was heartbreaking. Usman led on the scorecards in the fifth round.

After a difficult start in which Edwards took his back, Usman took control with an imposing attack. He landed numerous takedowns without allowing his British counterpart a chance to breathe.

Just when Edwards seemed to be running out of gas Edwards launched the famous head kick that was heard around the globe. Usman lost for the second time in all his career.

Following his initial statement, Usman returned to Twitter to offer his congratulations to Edwards on a job well done.

“Damn I love this sport!! !” Usman said. “Things can happen, but… Alhamdulillah! Congratulations Leon Edwards.”

Whilst this is a devastating loss, Usman knows that Edwards will be back in his life soon. UFC President Dana White confirmed plans to schedule a trio between the two of them when they are both healthy enough to fight again.

Usman holds a unanimous decision win over Edwards from their first meeting in 2015 and now “Rocky” has pulled off the upset in the rematch. White mentioned that he would love to take the third fight to Edwards’ home country of England, although it’s obviously premature to make any plans for the trilogy just yet.