Kamaru Usman’s last chance at relevancy is UFC Atlanta as he seeks to revive his career

Kamaru Usman, a former UFC welterweight champion, is approaching a critical moment in his career as he heads into UFC Atlanta. The pressure is high, with various observers—including respected names like Daniel Cormier—believing that this event will determine whether Usman can remain a significant force in the division or if his time at the top is nearing its end. UFC Atlanta is widely seen as Usman’s last real opportunity to stay relevant at the elite level of mixed martial arts.

The stakes of this matchup have sparked conversations throughout the MMA community. Analysts and fighters alike are debating whether a win could propel him into another title run or if a loss would signal that it’s time for him to consider stepping away, as pointed out by Michael Bisping. With the spotlight on his future, fans are eager to see if Usman can silence the doubts and prove he still belongs among the best.

As UFC Atlanta approaches, all eyes are on Usman to see if he can deliver when it matters most.

Kamaru Usman’s Career on the Line at UFC Atlanta

Kamaru Usman’s legacy as a former UFC welterweight champion faces a crucial test in Atlanta. A loss here could signal the end of his relevance in a stacked division and force a reassessment of his future in MMA.

Recent Setbacks and Losing Streak

Usman’s recent record has shifted notably from his dominant title run. He is currently on a losing streak dating back to his back-to-back defeats against Leon Edwards, where he lost and then failed to regain the welterweight title. These losses ended his long-standing win streak and exposed some of the physical limitations that have been catching up to him as he advances in age.

He last fought at middleweight in a short-notice bout against Khamzat Chimaev, which ended in a decision loss and intensified questions about his ability to compete at the highest level. Key UFC figures, including Daniel Cormier, have now described UFC Atlanta as a “must-win” for Usman if he hopes to remain relevant within the promotion (Cormier’s perspective).

His losing skid, combined with growing skepticism from fans and analysts, marks this bout as a crossroads in his storied career.

Significance of the Co-Main Event

At UFC Atlanta, Usman faces Joaquin Buckley in a high-stakes co-main event. The choice of opponent is significant because Buckley presents a new stylistic challenge and enters the fight with momentum. Usman enters as a sizable underdog according to the odds, a rare position for a fighter who once dominated his weight class (odds breakdown).

The placement as co-main event, rather than headliner, demonstrates a shift in how the UFC and Dana White currently view Usman’s drawing power. For Usman, a victory could restore some measure of his reputation and halt his losing streak.

A loss, however, could drastically reduce his future opportunities for title contention or marquee bouts. The fight also takes place in a packed fight card, increasing the pressure to deliver a decisive performance.

Coaching Changes and Preparation

Usman has made notable changes to his training and coaching staff ahead of UFC Atlanta. After his previous setbacks, he reevaluated parts of his camp, bringing in new voices and technical perspectives that align with the modern evolution of the sport. This move is seen as a response to both the physical challenges and tactical adjustments exposed in past fights.

His team has focused on refining his striking and grappling, aiming to address lapses that contributed to recent defeats. Usman has increased film study, opting for a data-driven approach to exploit Buckley’s tendencies.

These coaching adjustments are central to his preparation. Whether they will translate to in-cage success remains to be seen, but it represents a clear effort to adapt under mounting pressure and scrutiny.

Implications for the Welterweight Division and Usman’s Legacy

Kamaru Usman’s position in the UFC has shifted after recent events, making his fight at UFC Atlanta highly significant. The outcome could influence the landscape for both his career trajectory and the broader welterweight class.

Impact of a Potential Victory or Defeat

A win for Usman in Atlanta could keep him in the championship conversation and renew discussions about bouts with top welterweights or a move up to middleweight. A loss, however, would have major consequences, potentially signaling his decline and leading some experts, including Michael Bisping, to suggest he should consider retirement if defeat comes against

Joaquin Buckley at UFC Atlanta.

Usman previously dominated names like Colby Covington and Gilbert Burns, and a win could justify a high-profile rematch or set up a fresh run toward the title. If he loses again after setbacks to fighters like Leon Edwards and Khamzat Chimaev, Usman’s relevancy at the elite level could greatly diminish, pushing him out of the top contender conversation and forcing a career reassessment. Several commentators believe UFC Atlanta is truly his last shot at remaining relevant in the stacked welterweight division, as noted by Daniel Cormier and others.

Rivalries and Past Opponents

Usman’s reputation has been shaped by a series of key rivalries within the UFC. His trilogy with Colby Covington headlined major events, including UFC 268 in New York and previous cards in Las Vegas at the T-Mobile Arena. Usman’s win over Gilbert Burns cemented his dominance in the welterweight class, while the recent loss to Khamzat Chimaev up a division showed both his resilience and his career’s new uncertainties.

Potential matchups against familiar names such as Rafael dos Anjos or even crossover bouts with competitors like Nate Diaz often circulate among fans. Usman has never fought in lightweight, but possible “super fights” with Michael Chandler or even Conor McGregor could be discussed if his stock remains high. His performance in Atlanta may re-open doors to high-profile events against these established rivals, or it may close the book on such opportunities.

Future Opportunities Beyond MMA

Should Usman decide the welterweight or middleweight climb is over after UFC Atlanta, the combat sports world presents varied avenues. Boxing has often lured UFC fighters, and Usman’s name has occasionally been linked to crossover bouts. The World Boxing Council has overseen events featuring MMA athletes, like Jake Paul versus Nate Diaz, and Usman could follow a similar path if motivations align.

He could also participate in exhibition matches or even consider influencer boxing cards, joining the likes of Mike Tyson or events featuring social media personalities. Alternatively, options within the UFC could include commentary, coaching, or mentorship roles with rising stars such as Paddy Pimblett or Henry Cejudo. Usman’s reputation and fight legacy would ensure continued relevance, even beyond active competition. There remains the possibility of one-off events, perhaps at major arenas in Las Vegas or elsewhere, involving notable names like Tony Ferguson, Paulo Costa, Kevin Holland, Robert Whittaker, or Israel Adesanya, depending on the direction Usman chooses after UFC Atlanta.