UFC fans may have gotten the main event matchup they wanted when Jorge Masvidal agreed to step into the Octagon with welterweight champion Kamaru Usman on just six days notice but the fight itself proved to be pretty lackluster. It went the distance, which is a testament to Masvidal's stamina, but it featured little explosive action outside of the first round.
Masvidal came out with his signature fast-paced start but the champion mitigated the damage and avoided any big shots or major damage. It was definitely a strong start for Masvidal who appeared to have the advantage in the stand-up striking game. He was ultimately unable to keep up the pace though and adjustments on the part of Usman led to a completely one-sided affair.
Taking the advice of his corner, Usman closed the distance and worked the body of Masvidal from inside the clinch. The champion methodically broke down Masvidal's body through a series of body shots, foot stomps and shoulder thrusts. And that was pretty much it for the remainder of the fight.
Masvidal did show flashes of explosiveness but was kept in check for most of the fight, neutralized through the clinch and takedowns. It wasn't an exciting showing at all, but it was a smart and effective approach by the champion and his team.
Perhaps taking the fight on only six days' notice was part of the reason Masvidal looked so fatigued -- or maybe it was the heavy body shows -- but either way, he didn't seem to have that same explosiveness beyond the first round. The end result was a unanimous decision win for Kamaru Usman, who showed nothing but respect to Gamebred for taking the fight. Despite the one-sided result, it's likely UFC fans will want to see these two meet again in the Octagon, but with proper training notice.