Kamaru Usman Roars Back with Dominant Win Over Joaquin Buckley

Former UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru “Nigerian Nightmare” Usman delivered a statement performance in his return to the Octagon at UFC on ESPN 69 in Atlanta on June 14, 2025. After enduring three narrow losses in recent bouts, Usman reasserted his dominance, securing a unanimous decision victory over Joaquin Buckley.

Usman showcased signature wrestling prowess and relentless top control, executing takedowns in each of the first four rounds and maintaining near-continuous pressure. The judges scored the bout 49–46, 49–46, and 48–47, signaling a clear win for the former champ.

Despite Buckley’s fight-back in the final round—hitting Usman with heavy hooks and uppercuts—it wasn’t enough to offset Usman’s ground control, which saw him control nearly 13 minutes of the fight .

Post-fight, Usman expressed relief and renewed confidence:

“I needed to get that monkey off my back. I know I’m still able to do this at the highest level”.

The bout also earned Fight of the Night honors, underlining its intensity and significance.

What This Means

• Usman ends his winless streak, marking his first victory since November 2021.

• He sends a clear message to the welterweight division: at 38, he remains a threat—ready to chase back the belt .

Congratulations, champ! The belt chase resumes—The Boogeyman is back.