Kamaru Usman spoke out via his social media and went through a bunch of questions submitted by fans. Usman shared his views on certain rivals, his training as well as his plans for the future. What’s more, Usman also chimed in on his mentor-mentee relationship with all-time great champion and analyst Rashad Evans.

Kamaru Usman has been under the watchful eye of ‘Suga’ for a meaningful period and has evolved under his tutelage. In fact, even before he won ‘The Ultimate Fighter’, Usman has been exposed to Evans’ teachings and championship mindset. The two became closer during their time at the ‘Blackzilians’ gym and Usman even stayed with Evans for a period of time.

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Kamaru Usman and Rashad Evans: Dynamic duo

‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ explained his relationship with Evans when a fan asked which fighter he [Usman] looked up to. Kamaru Usman didn’t spare a second and immediately attributed the trajectory of his life and career to Rashad Evans. He explained that Evans’ disposition as a champion was the driving force for him to mimic greatness.

“I can’t say this enough people, a big reason why I came down to South Florida is because of the man, the myth, the legend, Hall of Famer ‘Suga’ Rashad Evans. Watching this man, the first time I met him was like first guy I got star struck when I watched.”

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“I see his presence, he walked in the back I’m like ‘Oh s**t that’s ‘Suga’ Rashad.’  But super nice guy, his humbleness, the way he carried himself was so amazing and piercing to me to where I was like ‘I want to be like that guy. That was part of the reason why I chose, basically I was his apprentice. I was like ‘Imma go follow that guy, that’s the guy that I want to emulate. Fast forward to now, I’m constantly chasing him.”

It’s evident from Usman’s reflection that Rashad Evans played a pivotal role in shaping the welterweight champions’ career. Rashad has been on record speaking fondly of Usman as well and their mentor-mentee relationship is a thing of substance. Given the way things are going, it won’t take long for Usman to follow Evans into the UFC’s Hall of Fame either.