Kamaru Usman and Colby Covington (image via UFC/YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Although Kamaru Usman has defeated Colby Covington two different times now, the UFC’s welterweight champ hasn’t closed the door on fighting his rival again.

Usman faced Covington in the main event of UFC 268 Saturday, and worked his way to a unanimous decision win over the polarizing fighter. Usman outstruck Covington by a 158 to 119 margin, and scored two knockdowns in the memorable fight.

The bout marked the second time the two were fighting, as Usman stopped Covington in their thrilling, 2019 fight.

Following the bout, Usman acknowledged that Covington has some work to do, before a third fight can materialize. But, the renowned fighter didn’t shut it down as a possibility (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“I don’t know (if we’ll fight again),” Usman said. “That guy’s tough. I think he’ll tune up a lot of guys in the division so it’s up to him. If he’s willing to do the work and get back up here, and I’m still here, we’ll make it happen.”

It remains to be seen who the 34-year-old champion will fight next. The consensus seems to be that if Leon Edwards defeats Jorge Masvidal next month, the contender will be tapped for a title shot.

But, Usman made it clear after UFC 268, he’s not ready to talk about who he wants to face next.

“I need some time with my daughter,” Usman said. “She passed out tonight (during my fight), so I don’t know. That lets me know that I have to give him some time. These are special to me. I need to make it memorable for her. I’ve been gone for almost 10 weeks, but I need to give her some time. I can’t even think about fighting right now.

With the win on Saturday, Usman moved his overall record to 20-1. The victory was also Usman’s fifth title defense.