Kamaru Usman Wins UFC Atlanta Return After 20 Months

Kamaru Usman made a triumphant return to the welterweight division at UFC Fight Night in Atlanta, securing a unanimous decision victory over Joaquin Buckley, his first win since 2021. Despite concerns about his knees and time away from the division, Usman dominated the fight with superior wrestling and control, earning praise for his performance and emotional post-fight remarks affirming his place among the division's elite. Usman’s victory snapped Buckley’s six-fight winning streak and positioned Usman as a contender aiming to reclaim a welterweight title and potentially hold titles in two divisions. Francis Ngannou, despite his tense relationship with UFC CEO Dana White, publicly supported Usman throughout fight week, highlighting camaraderie among fighters. The event also featured notable performances from Rose Namajunas, who won a hard-fought decision against Miranda Maverick, and Edmen Shahbazyan, who scored a unanimous decision win, signaling potential moves up the rankings. Overall, the night underscored Usman's resilience and ongoing relevance in the UFC welterweight scene.