Michael Bisping questions if Kamar Usman's career might conclude following a possible loss in Atlanta.
Crucial Crossroads for Kamaru Usman
Kamaru Usman, once the undisputed best welterweight in the UFC, is now standing at a pivotal point in his career. The 37-year-old veteran has experienced a series of setbacks, losing two consecutive fights to Leon Edwards and another to Khamzat Chimaev. However, on June 15, Usman will square off against rising star Joaquin Buckley, in what Michael Bisping calls a defining moment for the Nigerian Nightmare.
"I've always admired Usman, a true champion with genuine character. Yet, his recent lean spell - three consecutive losses - may force him to reconsider his future," Bisping opines. If Usman fails to secure a win against Buckley, retirement could potentially be on the horizon, with Bisping adding a note of sincerity: "It's not a light-hearted suggestion, I assure you. He's an excellent fighter and a decent person. But Joaquin is determined, and this fight seems to be decisive."
Buckley brings a formidable six-fight win streak to the table, with four finishing moves to his credit. At the end of 2023, he made headlines by KOing Colby Covington in the third round, earning the seventh spot in the welterweight rankings.
Notably, Usman hasn't seen action since October 2023 in his middleweight bout against Chimaev, making his return to the welterweight division, his natural class, all the more critical. The upcoming showdown between the two contenders could significantly impact not only Usman's position in the rankings but also the shape of UFC's welterweight title race.
In essence, Usman must prove that he can still be a force to be reckoned with in the 170-pound division. A loss could signal a decline for the former champion. But a victory would reaffirm his standing as a top contender, pushing him back into title contention. The UFC’s decision to feature this bout as the five-round main event underlines its significance.
Bookmakers across Atlanta are seeing a tight contest between Kamaru Usman and Joaquin Buckley, given Usman's recent retirement talks after three consecutive losses. A true champion like Nurmagomedov, the outcome of this fight could determine if Usman can reclaim his spot as the welterweight's top contender. Should Usman secure a victory in this decisive match, his retirement may be put on hold, as he tries to once again challenge for the title.
