“I’m waiting for the that fight between JDM (Della Maddalena) and Islam (Makhachev), which is a fantastic fight. Both guys are extremely talented. Both guys are really, really good,” he said.
“A fight with either one of those guys is going to be fantastic. A fight with myself and JDM – humongous fight. I know they probably want to do a stadium in Australia. I haven’t been in the stadium yet. So, why not? And also a fight with the current pound-for-pound (Makhachev) and the former pound-for-pound. I think that’s a blockbuster anyone would sign up for.”
At 38 years of age, Usman could be considered a veteran of the game at this point in his career. But that tenure brings wisdom and perspective, and while he remains committed to chasing his professional goals, he’s determined to enjoy the journey, even if that means embracing the contrasting emotions that go through a fighter in the lead-up to a big fight.
MORE UFC ATLANTA: Rose Namajunas Interview | Michael Chiesa Interview | Andre Petroski Interview | Last Time In Atlanta | Kamaru Usman Interview | Joaquin Buckley Interview
“I’m in a place in my career and in my life where you understand that each and every moment, no matter how difficult, no matter how good or bad, is an opportunity, and understanding that once it’s gone, it’s gone; it’s not there anymore,” he said.
“So, understanding that it’s an opportunity, you kind of approach it and see it a little differently. So, everyone excites me. Even now, going into the fight on Saturday, I’m nervous, I’m a little scared, I’m excited, and I’m anxious. So, all of these things wrapped up in one, I know, at the end of the day, it’s still a blessing to have the opportunity to feel these things.”
