Kamaru Usman can replace Jon Jones as the UFC GOAT if he beats Leon Edwards, claims UFC president Dana White.

The Nigerian Nightmare rematches Edwards on August 20 in Salt Lake City following his initial victory seven years ago.

Having beaten both Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal twice before already as well, another win over Edwards would surely cement Usman’s legacy as one of the greatest to ever do it.

The 34-year-old currently holds the record for the most consecutive wins at welterweight in UFC history, with a perfect record from a total of 14 fights. His overall record stands at 20 wins and one loss.

And White spoke glowingly about the UFC welterweight champion following the announcement that he will defend his belt against Edwards in the main event of UFC 278.

“I still consider Jon Jones as the greatest,” he said at a press conference.

“It’s time to start talking about Kamaru Usman. He’s one fight away from tying Anderson Silva. He already beat Jon Jones and GSP [Georges St-Pierre].

Related News

“In his next fight, if he beats Leon Edwards, he ties Anderson Silva. So yeah, he’s in the discussion.”

Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “Usman, this guy, he’s the best ever. He’s the best welterweight of all-time and he is on his possible way to GOAT status. Colby Covington is one tough dude, he is so tough,”

“There are still guys for him. You got some people out here talking about Khamzat Chimaev. He’s only had four fights in the UFC.

“I get it, he’s one of coolest, baddest dudes we’ve ever seen the way he rips through people, but once you break into that top 10, top five, even before you get to Usman it’s a whole other game.

“He’s a couple fights away. If he can beat a couple of guys in the top 10 or five then we’ll see, yes.

“Leon Edwards has been waiting for a title shot for a long time, too. Fought the fights we’ve told him to fight and he’s had some bad luck, too. But, there’s always somebody to challenge for a title.”