Dana White: Kamaru Usman is fighting for title at UFC 235, even if it’s not vs. Tyron Woodley

By Mookie Alexander @mookiealexander

It’s hardly a secret that Dana White is at odds with UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley, often accusing him of not wanting to fight. Truth be told, it’s almost as if he wants to strip Woodley for the belt, and he’s certainly hinted at possibly making another interim title if Woodley doesn’t defend his belt soon.

Among the contenders itching for a crack at the title is Kamaru Usman, who is coming off an impressive decision win over Rafael dos Anjos. White even indicated Usman could jump aheadof Colby Covington, and that appears to be what will happen.

Usman’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, told MMAjunkie on Wednesday that Kamaru will fight Woodley at UFC 235 in March.

“We signed a contract. One hundred percent, Woodley is fighting Usman. Las Vegas. March 2.”

White responded to MMAjunkie in a text message, saying “That fight is happening or Usman vs. someone for the title.”

Woodley was targeted to fight at the since-cancelled UFC 233, but it appears he’s not fully recovered from recent surgery after his win vs. Darren Till at UFC 228. As for Colby Covington, he of course swooped in for his own comment on the situation.

“Listen John, UFC fans are dumb, but they aren’t stupid,” Covington said to MMAjunkie. “If the marquee doesn’t say Covington vs. Woodley, then it ain’t a title fight. Print that.”

So as you can see, the top of the welterweight division is currently providing tremendous clarity.

What we do know is that UFC 235 is set to feature a welterweight clash between Ben Askren and Robbie Lawler, which was originally on the UFC 233 card. As for the rest? It seems as if Usman is good to go for March, but everything else is unknown.