Kamaru Usman Prepares for Crucial Fight Against Joaquin Buckley in Atlanta

ATLANTA, Georgia — Kamaru Usman, the former UFC welterweight champion, is set to face rising contender Joaquin Buckley at UFC Fight Night this Saturday. The event will take place at State Farm Arena, starting at 10 p.m. ET.

This fight is particularly significant for Usman, who is attempting to break a three-fight losing streak. Following a defeat to Leon Edwards in August 2022, Usman lost to Khamzat Chimaev and has been sidelined for nearly a year.

In preparation for the clash, Buckley posed a question to Usman: “How’s it feel going up against the new gen?” The 31-year-old contender is eager to prove himself against the 38-year-old veteran, who has not competed since October 2023.

Usman declined to answer Buckley directly but later stated, “I’m just f—ing tired. Why do I need to be talking? On Saturday, we’re going to be locked in [the Octagon], and that’s when I’m going to do the talking.” He emphasized the importance of taking the right opportunities for his career.

Usman has expressed his desire to reclaim the welterweight title and move up in weight to challenge for a second championship if he can upset Buckley. “We want to finish this the right way,” he said, reflecting on his career aspirations.

Buckley’s six-fight winning streak underscores the challenge Usman faces. He acknowledges Buckley’s hard work and the opportunity he’s earned despite their differing levels of experience. “If I was him, I would want this fight,” Usman said of Buckley’s determination.

As fight night approaches, Usman remains focused, using his experience to guide him. He remarked on the nerves that come before fights, saying, “You still have those nerves each and every time when you step in there.”

A victory for Usman would significantly impact the welterweight division dynamics and reaffirm his status among the elite fighters. He aims to showcase that he is still a formidable force in the Octagon despite recent setbacks.

As both fighters prepare, fans are eager to see if Usman can return to form and prove that he still belongs among the top contenders in the UFC.