Photo: Jorge Masvidal catches his breathe (Getty Images)
On Saturday, the news broke that No.1-ranked Welterweight Gilbert Burns tested positive for COVID-19 and would not be able to compete for the title against Kamaru Usman on Saturday, July 11.
At first glance, it looked like the title bout would be cancelled and rescheduled for a future date, as Usman could not travel to Abu Dhabi with the other fighters. This was due to the UFC’s strict schedules, a necessity to ensure fighter safety.
However, No. 3 Jorge Masvidal agreed to step in for Burns on just six days’ notice. This will be Masvidal’s first career title fight in the UFC.
Although he has never fought for the belt, Masvidal does have some history with Usman, as they engaged in a verbal altercation at this past Super Bowl. The history these two share may add an interesting element to the fight.
Did the UFC make the right decision? No. 2-ranked contender Colby Covington also said that he would step up to the plate and take the rematch against Usman.
Was Covington a better pick for the title, or will Masvidal prove to be a worthy contender? Should the fight have been postponed to Burns could fight? Let us know!
Written by: Drew Pierce