Former UFC Champion Usman Returns at UFC Atlanta Main Event

Kamaru Usman, former UFC welterweight champion, is making a pivotal return to the welterweight division as he faces Joaquin Buckley at UFC Atlanta, marking his first fight since March 2023. Usman is on a three-fight losing streak and aims to reclaim his status among the top contenders after weighing in successfully at 171 pounds for the main event. Buckley, riding a six-fight winning streak and known for his powerful knockouts, presents Usman with a significant challenge, highlighting the generational clash in the division. Usman has expressed determination to learn from past mistakes and prove he remains a top welterweight despite recent setbacks and time away from competition. The event is notable not only for this key matchup but also for the surprise appearance of former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, now with PFL, sparking further excitement around UFC Atlanta. Usman's performance in this fight could reshape the welterweight landscape and determine his future title contention prospects.