What's Happening?
Dricus Du Plessis, a former UFC middleweight champion, returned to the octagon with a decisive victory over Kamaru Usman at UFC Fight Night in Oklahoma City. The fight, which took place at the Paycom Center, saw Du Plessis win by unanimous decision with scores
of 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46. This victory marks Du Plessis's return to form after losing his middleweight title to Khamzat Chimaev in August 2025. Du Plessis dominated the fight, outlanding Usman in significant strikes and showcasing his striking prowess. Usman, a former welterweight champion, struggled to find his rhythm after an early punch from Du Plessis affected his vision. Despite the loss, Usman remains a respected figure in the sport, having held the welterweight title from March 2019 to November 2021.
Why It's Important?
This victory is significant for Du Plessis as it positions him back in the title contention in the UFC middleweight division. With a professional record of 24-3, Du Plessis is now eyeing another title shot, potentially against current champion Sean Strickland, whom he has defeated twice before. For Usman, the loss adds to a challenging period in his career, having lost four of his last five fights. However, his performance against a larger opponent like Du Plessis demonstrates his resilience and ability to compete at a high level. The fight also highlights the competitive nature of the UFC middleweight division, with several fighters vying for the top spot.
What's Next?
Following his victory, Du Plessis is likely to pursue another title shot, aiming to reclaim the middleweight belt. His previous victories over Sean Strickland could bolster his case for a rematch. For Usman, the focus will be on reassessing his strategy and deciding whether to continue competing at middleweight or return to welterweight. UFC CEO Dana White has expressed confidence in Usman's abilities, suggesting that he still has the potential to compete at the highest level. The outcome of this fight could lead to significant matchups in the future, impacting the dynamics of both the middleweight and welterweight divisions.
