UFC on ESPN 69: Kamaru Usman vs Joaquin Buckley

At UFC on ESPN 69, held on June 14, 2025, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, Kamaru Usman faced Joaquin Buckley in a highly anticipated welterweight bout. Usman, a former UFC welterweight champion, was returning to the Octagon after a two-year hiatus following a three-fight losing streak to Leon Edwards and Khamzat Chimaev . Buckley, on the other hand, entered the fight on a six-fight winning streak, with four of those victories coming by knockout.

The fight was a tactical battle, with Usman utilizing his wrestling and grappling skills to control the pace. Buckley showcased his striking prowess, landing significant shots throughout the fight. Despite Buckley’s efforts, Usman’s experience and control in the clinch and on the ground were decisive. The judges awarded Usman a unanimous decision victory, marking a successful return to the Octagon.

This victory was significant for Usman, as it not only ended his losing streak but also demonstrated his ability to adapt and overcome challenges after a period of inactivity. For Buckley, the fight was a testament to his resilience and determination, despite the setback. The bout earned both fighters the Fight of the Night bonus, highlighting the competitive and entertaining nature of their matchup.

Looking ahead, Usman’s victory positions him for potential high-profile matchups in the welterweight division, while Buckley remains a formidable contender with the ability to rebound from this defeat.