Jorge Masvidal steps in to fight Kamaru Usman at Fight Island
We got ourselves a main event for Fight Island! The “BMF” champion, Jorge Masvidal, will step in to fight Kamaru Usman for the welterweight title and will replace Gilbert Burns. Burns tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday and did not board his place to Fight Island.
The UFC removed Burns from the card immediately following the positive test results.
Per multiple sources, all parties have agreed to terms and the fight is on for next week at Fight Island in Abu Dhabi. Jorge Masvidal landed earlier today in Las Vegas via private jet while Usman is en route. They will both be tested for COVID-19 and will remain quarantined awaiting test results.
Once results are received, if negative, the two fighters will board a plane to Abu Dhabi. If either fighter tests positive the fight will not happen.
Image via Frank Franklin II
The UFC was in need of a main event. Fight Island is only a week away and it seemed as though the main event would have to be scrapped unless a replacement opponent was found ASAP. Jorge Masvidal answered the call and negotiations began.
It was reported by ESPN that Masdivdal will replace Kamaru Usman contingent upon a negative COVID-19 test.
The fight between Kamaru Usan and Jorge Masvidal was originally targeted for Fight Island. The UFC could not come to terms with Masvidal and negotiations quickly hit a roadblock. Masvidal was not content with the potential payout as it would be considerably less than what he was paid for the fight with Nate Diaz.
Jorge decided to sit on the sidelines until he was paid his worth. Masvidal, Jon Jones, and Henry Cejudo have all publicly expressed their discontent with fighter pay.
Masvidal (35-13) is riding the biggest high of his long career. Currently, on a 3 fight win streak, Masvidal was next in line to fight for the welterweight title. This will be Kararu Usman’s second title defense. Usman defended his title in December of 2019 by defeating Colby Covington in the fifth round via TKO.
Image via Essentially Sports
The co-main event between Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway was expected to move to the main event slot but will now return to the co-main slot.
Was this meant to happen all along? The fans will finally get to see the fight they were asking for. What are your thoughts on Jorge Masvidal stepping in on late notice to fight Kamaru Usman for the welterweight title at Fight Island?
