One of the Biggest Reasons Behind Kamaru Usman’s Sensational Win Against Gilbert Burns at UFC 258

UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman has been dominating the headlines following his record-setting win at UFC 258. ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ came out on top against his former teammate Gilbert Burns who fell to strikes. The TKO came off the back of a switch-step jab that sent Burns to the canvas where he was finished.

Kamaru Usman is now in line to become perhaps the greatest welterweight champion and eclipse Georges St-Pierre. This feat will be easier said than done considering that he still needs several title defenses notched under his belt before that happens. However, he’s still in his athletic prime and has shown no inclination to slow down any time soon.

Also Read: ‘They Did Not Stream Tonight’- Dana White Gives a Huge Update on His Battle Against Illegal Streamers

Kamaru Usman- Chartering new courses

The biggest narrative coming into UFC 258 was the fact that Kamaru Usman and Gilbert Burns had spent countless hours training. There was plenty of hype and speculation to see who would truly get the better of the other under the bright lights. However, Usman made his position clear as he left the cage with the undisputed strap still around his waist.

A huge reason for Usman’s success at UFC 258 could be attributed to his move to Colorado. Usman where he linked up with Trevor Whittman who is one of the most credentialed MMA coaches. He has trained champions like Rose Namajunas and Justin Gaethje. In fact, Usman trained extensively with ‘The Highlight’ in preparation for his match-up in Las Vegas.

A key path to victory was highlighted in the way Kamaru Usman went about changing the course of the fight. Trevor Whittman’s coaching style relies on executing the perfect jab and this can be seen from all his high-level pupils. Usman who got rocked in the first round managed to change up his look and began throwing a picture-perfect jab.

Additionally, he incorporated stance switches without any telegraphy and this led to a rather flashy victory in the end. It’s clear that moving away from South Florida helped to elevate his game when facing a familiar opponent. MMA fans will be excited to see the evolution to Usman’s striking that will come up after training with Whittman.