First Round Management has taken the reigns in regard to their clients’ news, and it appears Jorge Masvidal has his mind made up on what his next challenge will be.
Or, at least, he’s narrowed it down to two options.
On Tuesday, manager Abraham Kawa told MMA Junkie on that Masvidal’s only next move will be to either fight welterweight champion Kamaru Usman or Conor McGregor. With no opponent scheduled for Usman yet, Kawa believes the champ is definitely up for a fight with “Gamebred.”
“I know Usman is interested as I spoke with him briefly at the ESPYS,” Kawa said. “Usman is dying to get back in there, so he is definitely up for it.”
Masvidal (34-13 UFC, 11-6 UFC), who’s coming off the fastest knockout in UFC history vs. Ben Askren at UFC 239, might have cemented himself as the No. 1 contender. While it seemed like his good friend and teammate, Colby Covington, was a lock for the next shot, he’s booked to fight Robbie Lawler in the main event of UFC on ESPN 5 on Aug. 3.
With Usman targeting a return before the end of the year, Masvidal could very well be next in line. If not Usman, Kawa says Masvidal would love to fight McGregor for obvious reasons.
“Masvidal wants the fight that pays him the most,” Kawa said. “I prefer the fight that pays him the most, as well. It’s why we get along so good (laughs).”
Masvidal is in no hurry. As he made clear last week during an appearance on “The Dan Le Batard Show,” Masvidal has his eyes on these two fights – a shot at gold or a money fight. Masvidal, one of the hottest names in the UFC right now, is simply looking to capitalize by taking the biggest opportunity possible.
“Jorge didn’t want to wait, and we took the Askren fight knowing his next fight will be for the title if he won,” Kawa said. “So there is no hurry. Waiting for a title shot now makes most sense, unless it’s a payday (vs. McGregor).”
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