Jorge Masvidal praises Kamaru Usman for highlight-reel knockout

Jorge Masvidal is singing praises for UFC welterweight world champion Kamaru Usman following their second world championship encounter this past weekend in the main event of UFC 261.

Never been knocked out before in his career, Masvidal crashed to the canvas as Usman landed a monstrous right hand at him. The champ followed up with hammer fists that ended the bout via knockout in round two.

“This has never happened in my whole career and it makes me appreciate the knockout. I look at it and I’m like wow perfect timing,” said Masvidal in an interview with ESPN.

“I thought he was going in for a shot, and when I realized it wasn’t a shot, it was too late. I was throwing my check left hook, but it was already too late. I read the information wrong, so he sold it to me beautifully, and that’s why he got those results.”

Masvidal, who is 0-2 against Usman, has always been hostile towards the champ before they stepped inside the octagon. But after the highlight-reel knockout that folded him, he has a newfound respect for Usman given his skillset.

“In that moment right there, I am a fan because I love the sport so much, and it was just beautiful technique,” he said.

And after 50 pro fights and possibly a career-changing knockout, Masvidal sees no reason to stop fighting yet.

“I love the sport, I can’t retire without the belt. I’m stubborn, I just want to give it as much as I can. I’m 36 years old I still feel good. I still can push myself in the gym and not be overwhelmed, even by the young guys, so why not give it another run, you know?” – JM Siasat/RC, GMA News