UFC 261 Weigh in Results- Kamaru Usman Weighs in .5 Pounds Lighter Than Jorge Masvidal

Published 04/23/2021, 2:13 PM EDT

The main event of the UFC 261 pay-per-view is official as both Jorge Masvidal and Kamaru Usman have made weight successfully. The champion, however, weighed in lighter than the challenger, which might raise a few eye-brows.

Usman is one of the bigger welterweights and has been tipped to even fight at middleweight at some point in his career. Masvidal, previously a lightweight, is considered one of the faster but smaller guys in the 170 lbs division. So, it was a bit surprising to see the champion weigh in at 169.5 lbs as opposed to the challenger’s 170 lbs.

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Nevertheless, the stacked card is set to go with two other title fights due to take place. Zhang Weili defends her Strawweight title against Rose Namajunas. Flyweight queen Valentina Shevchenko will put her throne on the line against former 115 lbs champion Jessica Andrade.

The decision from Usman to weigh lighter than Masvidal is surprising, as mentioned earlier. Whether it’s a strategic step from the champion or if he is just trying to baffle the challenger, is not yet clear. But one can expect his cardio to be better than ever in this weight.

Fans might be in for a barn-burner in this one as ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ looks to perform better than he did the first time around. ‘Gamebred’ on the other hand, is determined to finally capture the UFC gold and dethrone Usman in the process.

The duo previously fought at UFC 251 with Usman earning a decision. But one can argue that 6 days was just not enough time for Masvidal to prepare properly. However, this time around he is coming off of a full training camp.

Can Jorge Masvidal upset Kamaru Usman?

Usman has the advantage in his grappling and clinch work. But Masvidal is as crafty a veteran as one can imagine. He is very fast and clever in tight spaces. And of course, the BMF champion possesses the technique and power to knock anybody out on a given day.

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If Masvidal can use his skills accordingly with a proper camp and planning, he may just come away with a win. However, one must keep the following facts in mind before putting their money on the line.

‘Gamebred‘ tends to slow down as the fight progresses. Usman, on the contrary, picks his pace up as the rounds pass. So, that might play a major factor. Nevertheless, fans have a fantastic fight and an amazing card to enjoy this weekend.

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Who gets it done at UFC 261? Let us know your picks.

Jorge Masvidal’s Career Before His Move Up to Welterweight

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Written by:

Apratim Banerjee is an MMA author for EssentiallySports and has been writing professionally for almost a year. Before his current gig, Apratim worked as a UFC writer for Sportskeeda. A long-time MMA fan, Apratim has developed a critical eye for the sport that has helped him transfer his vast knowledge to his copies and give hardcore and casual readers a detailed insight into the fights and fighters.

UFC 261 Weigh in Results- Kamaru Usman Weighs in .5 Pounds Lighter Than Jorge Masvidal

Can Jorge Masvidal upset Kamaru Usman?

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