Kamaru Usman Questions Uncharacteristic Silence from Jorge Masvidal, Conor McGregor

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Kamaru Usman is ready to defend his UFC welterweight title in July. The problem, according to the reigning champion, is finding an opponent who is ready and willing to accept that opportunity.

Usman was expected to defend his belt against Jorge Masvidal during International Fight Week before the coronavirus pandemic changed the UFC’s plans. However, “The Nigerian Nightmare” is willing to change course and square off with Conor McGregor if “Gamebred” is unavailable. However, Usman says both Masvidal and McGregor have been uncharacteristically quiet when it comes to the topic of a fight with him. In Masvidal’s case, Usman claims the American Top Team product has had multiple opportunities to accept a bout.

"This is what I have to say: Both [McGregor and Masvidal]," Usman told ESPN. "Both guys are champions of Twitter, talking s--- on Twitter. In the history [of MMA], who has ever said no to a title shot? I'm that guy. I'm the boogeyman who these guys are saying no to a title shot against. And they better remain quiet.

"Jorge Masvidal, you had an opportunity on April 18, May 9, June and now July. You want to fight Nate -- a fight that wasn't even competitive. And Conor, you said you wanted to be the king of the 170-pound division. Now you're quiet. So you know what? Just remain quiet. I've given both of you a shot and none of you have taken it.”

While Masvidal has recently appeared to be more interested in angling for a rematch with Nate Diaz, Usman has promised to institute an interesting clause in his contract for a potential fight with McGregor.

"I will sign a contract with Conor McGregor. We'll put it in the contract, first or second round, I won't take you down," Usman said. "Yeah, if I want you down, there's no ifs, ands or buts about it. But if I want to stand up with you, I will. Am I going to try to knock Conor McGregor out? Absolutely. I'm going to try to knock his head off his F'ing shoulders.”

Usman last appeared at UFC 245 on Dec. 14, when he defended the welterweight crown with a fifth-round technical knockout of Colby Covington.