Dricus Du Plessis Dominates Usman, Eyes Title Shot as White Responds

WHO:

MMA Fighting - Dricus du Plessis of South Africa, Kamaru Usman of Nigeria, Sean Strickland (current UFC champion), Dana White (UFC president).

WHAT:

MMA Junkie - Dricus du Plessis improved his MMA record to 24-3 and his UFC record to 10-1 with the victory over Kamaru Usman.

MMA Junkie - Kamaru Usman holds a professional MMA record of 21-5 and a UFC record of 16-4.

Sportskeeda - Dricus du Plessis secured a unanimous decision victory over Kamaru Usman.

MMA Fighting - The fight was scored 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46 in favor of du Plessis.

Sportskeeda - Du Plessis called for a title shot following his victory.

MMA Fighting - Usman expressed dissatisfaction with one judge's score of 50-45 and mentioned a possible thumb poke during the fight.

WHERE:

MMA Fighting - The event took place at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

WHEN:

MMA Fighting - The fight occurred on July 18, 2026.

WHY:

MMA Fighting - Du Plessis stated, “I’m back in the winner’s circle. Let’s get my belt back,” expressing his desire to reclaim the title.

Sportskeeda - Du Plessis believes he did enough to warrant another UFC title shot after his victory.

MMA Fighting - Usman does not plan to retire from his career despite the loss.

HOW:

MMA Fighting - Du Plessis showcased his entire game during the fight, leading to a comfortable unanimous decision victory.

MMA Fighting - Du Plessis showcased his entire game during the fight leading to his victory.

Dricus du Plessis has improved his MMA record to twenty-four wins and three losses, and his UFC record to ten wins and one loss after defeating Kamaru Usman, who now holds a professional record of twenty-one wins and five losses. Following the fight, du Plessis expressed his determination to reclaim the title, stating, “I’m back in the winner’s circle. Let’s get my belt back.” He showcased his skills throughout the match, leading to a comfortable unanimous decision victory.