Kamaru Usman Leon Edwards style dispute cars more

Kamaru Usman, Leon Edwards style dispute, cars, more

SALT LAKE CITY — Tensions have risen sharply between Kamaru Usman and Leon Edwards ahead of Saturday’s UFC 278 main event rematch.

During Thursday’s pre-fight press conference, Usman (20-1 MMA, 15-0 UFC) and Edwards (18-3 MMA, 10-2 UFC) traded barbs over many things – many of which had nothing to do with this weekend’s do fights in the octagon for the welterweight title.

Edwards has repeatedly accused Usman of becoming too big for his pants as he has become a more successful and bigger star in the sport. However, the champion promises nothing — including his upcoming film role in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever — hasn’t diverted his focus from the task at hand.

“Talking is talking,” Usman told reporters, including MMA Junkie. “There is one thing that brought me here and that is my work ethic. Success only drives me to work even harder. If they think I’m slipping, it’s going to be a bad night for him.”

Despite Usman’s comments, Edwards stands by his belief in UFC 278, which will be held at Vivint Arena and aired on ESPN/ABC and ESPN+ on pay-per-view after the preliminary rounds.

“It’s not personal to me,” Edwards said. “I think I’m number 1. I want to prove it. He is currently wearing a t-shirt and closes his t-shirt. Everything is good.”

Usman said he wasn’t particularly bothered by Edward’s insinuations, saying it all came down to the challenger wanting what the champion had.

“If you looked like me, you would dress like me,” Usman said. “It’s just jealousy. You look like me, you would dress like me too.”

Watch the video above to see all of the UFC 278 press conferences between Usman and Edwards.

Visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 278 for more information on the card.