Kamaru Usman spoke to TMZ Sports activities simply days after he misplaced his belt to Leon Edwards three years in the past … and he vowed to make a triumphant return. It ended up taking far longer than he anticipated, however true to his phrase, the Nigerian Nightmare’s again and squarely within the title image!

“I bear in mind approaching right here and speaking to you guys after I obtained kicked within the head by Leon Edwards,” Usman instructed Babcock on the TMZ Sports activities TV present, reflecting on his 2022 loss and his motivation for transferring ahead.

“One of many greatest issues that actually hit me at that second was the chance to show to myself once more that I can rise up and do one thing and get again on the horse.”

Kamaru continued … “That eluded me for years. After which accidents piled up after which it simply appeared like I obtained deeper and deeper down right into a gap. However, to lastly crawl out of that gap and nonetheless be standing, that is why this win is so particular and it meant to a lot to me.”

That is why, when you watched Saturday’s card, Usman — who gained by unanimous choice — was so emotional … within the Octagon, and in the course of the post-fight presser.

After dropping to Edwards twice (fifth spherical KO, choice), after which to Khamzat Chimaev (choice) on a short-notice battle at 185 lbs., even Usman admits he had doubts whether or not he might carry out on the highest of ranges.

That is now been answered — and Kamaru, ranked fifth, finds himself squarely within the title image.

So, what’s subsequent for the 38-year-old?

We requested the previous welterweight champ … who gave us the blueprint to not solely safe his outdated 170 lb. belt, but additionally the middleweight strap.