Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman is set to return to the Octagon on June 14, headlining UFC Fight Night in Atlanta, Georgia, against surging contender Joaquin Buckley. The bout marks Usman’s first appearance since his majority decision loss to Khamzat Chimaev in October 2023, a fight he took on short notice and at a higher weight class.
Kamaru Usman’s Motivation and Recent Challenges
Kamaru Usman, now 37, is looking to halt a three-fight skid after a dominant run that saw him hold the welterweight title and remain unbeaten from 2013 to 2021. His recent setbacks include two losses to Leon Edwards-one by knockout and another by decision-followed by the defeat to Chimaev. Despite the losses, Usman remains ranked fourth in the UFC’s welterweight division and is regarded as one of the most accomplished fighters in the weight class.
On his podcast, Kamaru Usman spoke about his motivation for this comeback, emphasizing his desire for a true test inside the cage. “I’m one of those guys where I put in so much time and effort, you got to feel a fight a little bit. You want to get in there and feel like you got into a fight… Every now and again, that warrior spirit, you need to exercise it,” Usman said, expressing excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to compete again. He added, “Hey, June 14th, live from Atlanta, Georgia-your boy is back.”
“He’s very aggressive, he’s strong, he’s athletic, and I like that. Every now and again, that warrior spirit, you need to exercise it. “
The Rise of Joaquin Buckley
Joaquin Buckley enters the main event on a six-fight winning streak, making him one of the division’s most in-form contenders. Since dropping to welterweight in 2023, Buckley has gone undefeated, notching notable victories over Stephen Thompson and Colby Covington. His recent run includes four wins in 2024 alone, three of which were stoppages, earning him recognition as Combat Press’s 2024 MMA Breakout Fighter of the Year. Buckley is currently ranked sixth in the division and is pushing for a title shot with another high-profile win.
What’s at Stake
The matchup represents a crossroads for both fighters. For Usman, it is a chance to prove he remains a top contender and to potentially re-enter the title conversation after a period of inactivity and recent losses. For Buckley, it is an opportunity to solidify his status among the elite by defeating a former champion and extending his winning streak. The fight has generated anticipation due to the contrasting trajectories: Usman’s quest for resurgence versus Buckley’s rapid ascent.
UFC Fight Night: Usman vs. Buckley takes place at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, with the co-main event featuring a flyweight bout between former strawweight champion Rose Namajunas and Miranda Maverick.
