The evolution of Kamaru Usman’s jab

A trained wrestler, Kamaru Usman first developed his striking with the Blackzilians and Sanford MMA, before moving on to Trevor Wittman, a former boxer, in 2020. Initially, Usman preferred to work on the inside, clinching with opponents and smothering them with his wrestling. In 2018, these tactics saw him win the UFC Welterweight Championship from Tyron Woodley, a victory which saw him land heavy shots to the body. Around the time he began training with Wittman however, Usman transitioned to a more outside fighter, establishing the jab and setting up opportunities for counter-punching. Having upgraded his boxing, Usman has held onto the Welterweight Championship since the Woodley fight, and is currently scheduled to face Leon Edwards at UFC 278.