Get ready, fight fans! Former UFC Champion Kamaru Usman is ready to unleash his fury in the Octagon once again after an agonizing 18-month absence.

The former top-ranked welterweight, who holds a significant place in UFC history, is determined to turn the tide after experiencing the longest dry spell of his career. It has been nearly four years since he last celebrated a win, with his welterweight title stripped away in a stunning head kick knockout by rival Leon Edwards back in 2022.

Since that devastating loss, Usman faced back-to-back defeats — one in his title rematch against Edwards and another in a middleweight debut against Khamzat Chimaev, a fight he took on just nine days' notice at UFC 294.

Usman Returns Against a Fearsome Opponent

Now, after a lengthy wait, Usman's comeback is officially on the horizon, and it promises to be electrifying! He is set to headline UFC Fight Night in Atlanta on June 14th, facing the dynamic #6 welterweight Joaquin Buckley at State Farm Arena.

At 38 years old, Usman is stepping back into the ring for five intense rounds against a fighter who has been making waves in the welterweight division. Buckley, who’s been on an impressive 6-0 run at this weight class, is a formidable challenge, having defeated top contenders like Vicente Luque and Stephen 'Wonderboy' Thompson.

The Rise of Joaquin Buckley

As one of the newcomers shaking things up at 170 pounds, Buckley is no stranger to spectacular finishes. His knockout of Thompson last October made him only the second fighter in UFC history to achieve that feat, proving he’s not just a contender but a truly explosive athlete.

Moreover, Buckley wowed fans with a breathtaking spinning back kick knockout of Impa Kasanganay, leaving spectators in awe of his striking prowess.

A Public Call-Out and the Road to Potential Title Shot

In his recent bout against Colby Covington, Buckley delivered a thrilling performance that ended with a doctor stoppage TKO. Post-fight, he cleverly called out several fighters, including Usman, leaving it to the crowd to decide who he would chase next. The roar for Usman was unmistakable, leading the UFC to confirm this highly anticipated matchup.

This clash not only marks Usman's return from his long hiatus but could also pave the way for a title shot against current champion Belal Muhammad for the victor. As the fighters prepare, the stage is set for an unforgettable night in Atlanta—don’t miss it!