Usman vs Buckley: Is Kamaru Usman Healthy Enough to Defeat Joaquin Buckley?

Usman vs Buckley: Is Kamaru Usman Healthy Enough to Defeat Joaquin Buckley? Usman vs Buckley: Is Kamaru Usman Healthy Enough to Defeat Joaquin Buckley?

Kamaru Usman vs Joaquin Buckley has been announced as the main event for UFC Fight Night 257 on June 14, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, a highly anticipated matchup.

Usman is returning after nearly two years away and a three-fight losing streak, including a majority decision loss to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294 in October 2023, a tough comeback.

He will compete at his natural weight class of 170 pounds in this five-round bout, a factor that could aid his performance and help him regain form.

Buckley is on a six-fight winning streak since moving down to welterweight in 2023, with notable stoppage wins over Stephen Thompson, Vicente Luque, and Colby Covington, showing his dominance

Buckley is ranked No. 6 in the welterweight division, while Usman holds the No. 4 spot, making this fight a critical test for both fighters' title aspiration

This bout represents a crossroads for both fighters: Usman aims to snap his losing streak and reestablish himself, while Buckley seeks to cement his case for a title shot.

Usman has emphasized he'll only compete if fully healthy, though he hasn't detailed any recent injuries, leaving questions about his readiness and potential limitation

Buckley's youth, momentum, and finishing power make him a formidable challenge for Usman, who must prove he can adapt and return to championship form after setbacks.

The fight will be a defining moment for both men's welterweight title aspirations in 2025, with Usman's legacy and Buckley's rise on the line, making it highly anticipated.