The welterweight division heats up as former champion Kamaru Usman prepares to face breakout contender Joaquin Buckley on June 14 at Atlanta's State Farm Arena, in what could be a career-defining moment for both fighters.
Usman (20-4), a decorated NCAA Division II All-American wrestler and Ultimate Fighter winner, finds himself at a critical juncture. The 38-year-old former champion, who successfully defended his welterweight title five times, enters this bout on an unprecedented three-fight skid, including his shocking head-kick loss to Leon Edwards. This marks his first appearance in the octagon since 2023.
"It's a great fight," Usman said on the "Pound 4 Pound" podcast. "He's very aggressive, he's strong, he's athletic, and I like that. Every now and again, that warrior spirit, you need to exercise it."
On the opposite side stands the surging Buckley (21-6), currently ranked seventh in the division and riding an impressive six-fight winning streak. The 31-year-old has been remarkably active, securing four victories in 2024 alone, including notable wins over Vicente Luque, Stephen Thompson, and most recently, Colby Covington.
Following his stoppage victory against Covington, Buckley specifically called out Usman, viewing this matchup as his potential gateway to title contention.
"Right now, the big talk is that there are no stars in the UFC right now," Buckley stated on Instagram. "So I really feel like this is my opportunity to really show up and show out. I've got to go into that cage, get my hand raised – but not only get my hand raised, go out there and dominate this man and get the knockout that I know that I can get."
According to Statbet analysis, this matchup presents a fascinating clash between Usman's elite wrestling credentials and Buckley's explosive striking power, with momentum clearly favoring the younger challenger.
The event at State Farm Arena, home of the Atlanta Hawks, will accommodate over 21,000 fans. Tickets are currently available with prices starting at $199 and ranging up to $6,799 for premium seating. UFC VIP Experience packages include additional perks such as reserved seats at ceremonial weigh-ins and post-weigh-in receptions with UFC athletes.
The main card also features a women's flyweight bout between former champion Rose Namajunas and Miranda Maverick, alongside several other compelling matchups across multiple weight divisions.
