Kamaru Usman is set to make his return to the Octagon this Saturday at UFC Atlanta, where he will face rising star Joaquin Buckley in a highly anticipated welterweight bout. This marks Usman’s first fight since October 2023, and he is looking to end a three-fight losing streak, while Buckley aims for his seventh consecutive win and his first victory over an ex-champion.
The UFC Atlanta event also features a co-main event with notable fighters, including former strawweight champion Rose Namajunas, who will take on Miranda Maverick. Both fighters bring impressive resumes, making this card exciting for fans.
Usman, 38, has faced tough competition recently, having lost to elite fighters. His past performance against Leon Edwards showcased some strengths, especially with his clinch work, but he has shown signs of decline in speed and takedown effectiveness. This raises questions about which version of Usman will show up against Buckley. If Buckley can avoid being taken down, he could capitalize on Usman’s vulnerabilities, similar to what Colby Covington did in their fight.
Meanwhile, Namajunas has a chance to demonstrate her enduring skills against Maverick, who is familiar with her wrestling techniques. Namajunas still boasts the ability to compete at a high level, demonstrating her talent and experience in the Octagon.
In addition to Usman and Namajunas, the fight card includes a host of intriguing matchups, such as Edmen Shahbazyan against Andre Petroski, and Cody Garbrandt squaring off against Raoni Barcelos. Both Shahbazyan and Garbrandt are looking to regain their top forms after facing challenges in their careers.
As the UFC Atlanta event approaches, fans are eager to see whether Usman can reclaim his status in the welterweight division and how other fighters on the card will perform in what promises to be an action-packed night of fights. The stakes are high not only for Usman and Namajunas but for the entire lineup, reflecting the competitive nature of the UFC.
Overall, this event serves as an exciting opportunity for fighters to leave their mark and showcase their talents, making it a must-watch for MMA enthusiasts.