What Happened
At UFC Fight Night: Usman vs. Buckley, held on June 14, 2025, Kamaru Usman made a significant return to the welterweight division, securing a victory over Joaquin Buckley by unanimous decision. This win marked Usman’s first victory in nearly four years, following a series of losses that included two title fights against Leon Edwards and a middleweight bout against Khamzat Chimaev. Usman’s performance showcased his renowned wrestling skills and striking technique, reaffirming his status as a formidable competitor in the welterweight category.
Following Usman’s victory, Belal Muhammad, a fellow welterweight and former titleholder, publicly acknowledged Usman’s win with a message on social media, hinting at a potential matchup between the two. Muhammad recently lost the welterweight title to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 and is now seeking to re-establish himself as a top contender. The dynamics between Usman and Muhammad have been tense, characterized by online exchanges and a history of rivalry, which adds an intriguing layer to their potential future bout.
Key Details
- Event: UFC Fight Night: Usman vs. Buckley
- Date: June 14, 2025
- Location: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, Georgia
- Main Event Result: Kamaru Usman defeated Joaquin Buckley by unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 48-47).
- Belal Muhammad’s Recent Fight: Muhammad lost the welterweight title to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 and is looking for a win to secure another title shot.
- Usman’s Recent Fight History: Prior to UFC Atlanta, Usman had not won a fight since 2021, making this victory particularly significant for his career trajectory.
Multiple Perspectives
The reactions to Usman’s return and performance vary among fighters and analysts. On one hand, Usman’s victory is seen as a resurgence for a fighter who was once considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. His ability to dominate Buckley has led some to speculate that he could be next in line for a title shot, especially if he can secure another win against a top contender.
Conversely, Muhammad’s perspective highlights the competitive nature of the welterweight division. His callout of Usman indicates a desire to reclaim his position among the elite after his recent loss. However, Usman’s dismissal of a potential matchup with Muhammad suggests that he may prefer to face other contenders, such as the winner of the upcoming title fight between Maddalena and Islam Makhachev. This divergence in priorities illustrates the complexities of matchmaking in the UFC, where fighters must navigate personal rivalries and the rankings system.
Context & Background
Kamaru Usman has been a dominant force in the welterweight division, holding the title from 2019 until 2022. His recent struggles, including two losses to Leon Edwards, had raised questions about his future in the sport. The welterweight division is currently crowded with emerging talents and established fighters, making Usman’s return particularly noteworthy.
Belal Muhammad, who has been a consistent presence in the welterweight rankings, is also navigating a challenging landscape. His recent loss to Della Maddalena has put him in a position where he needs to secure a victory to remain in title contention. The rivalry between Usman and Muhammad adds an additional layer of intrigue to the division, as both fighters have expressed interest in facing each other.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While Usman’s victory has reignited interest in his career, uncertainties remain regarding his next steps. Will he face Muhammad, or will he pursue a title shot against the winner of Maddalena vs. Makhachev? Additionally, the welterweight rankings are fluid, and the outcomes of upcoming fights will significantly impact the landscape of the division.
Moreover, Muhammad’s health and readiness to compete following his recent medical issues could influence his ability to secure a fight. As the UFC continues to schedule bouts, the dynamics within the welterweight division will evolve, and fans will be watching closely to see how these narratives unfold.
In summary, the recent developments in the UFC welterweight rankings highlight the competitive nature of the division, the significance of Usman’s return, and the ongoing rivalries that shape the future of these fighters.
