Usman Still Has It!

Usman (21-4) picked up his first win in more than three years at UFC Fight Night in Atlanta, as he defeated Joaquin Buckley(21-7) by unanimous decision in the main event. All three judges scored the bout for Usman, via scores of 49-46, 49-46 and 48-47. It was Usman’s first victory since November 2021. The win snaps his three fight losing streak.

Usman was very emotional in his post fight interview. “It’s been a while, “I needed to get that monkey off my back. I know I’m still able to do this at the highest level. … I expected him to be really tough, which he was. He’s a very talented guy. I show love and respect to all of these guys because I know what it takes to work and get here.”

Back to the drawing board

Buckley seemed to be in good spirits after the fight, despite his 6 fight win streak being snapped. Clearly his weakness of not being able to defend Usman’s takedowns is what lost him the fight. Obviously he knows that he needs to improve on that to be able to contend for the title at welterweight.

“I’m going to be honest, I’m just glad to be in this Octagon with someone who is known as one of the best,” Buckley said. “For us to go five rounds and put on an amazing fight, I’m just so happy. I’ve come a long way to see me here. This ain’t gonna be the end. We just getting started.”