UFC Preview: Dricus Du Plessis vs Kamaru Usman

The UFC heads back to Oklahoma City for the first time in more than nine years, with the Paycom Center hosting a stacked 12-fight card. The main event features two former UFC champions as South Africa’s Dricus Du Plessis takes on former welterweight king Kamaru Usman in a fight that could have a huge impact on the middleweight title picture. 

Both men have held UFC gold before, but now they are looking to prove they still belong among the very best. With the middleweight division more competitive than ever, a win here could move the victor within touching distance of another championship opportunity. 

Dricus Du Plessis News 

Du Plessis enters this fight looking to bounce back after suffering the first defeat of his UFC career. The South African lost the middleweight title to Khamzat Chimaev in a dominant performance that also ended his impressive 11-fight winning streak and his unbeaten run inside the Octagon. 

Before that setback, Du Plessis established himself as one of the division’s biggest stars with victories over some of the best middleweights in the world, including two wins over current champion Sean Strickland. His aggressive style, relentless pressure and ability to finish fights made him one of the toughest competitors in the division. 

The biggest question heading into Saturday is how Du Plessis responds after such a difficult loss. Former champions often face extra pressure in their first fight after losing the belt, making this one of the most important fights of his career. 

Dricus Du Plessis vs Usman, who you got and why? pic.twitter.com/Y3OxvhAY6Y

— Agent MMA (@agentmma) July 12, 2026

Kamaru Usman News 

Usman returns to action after spending more than a year away from the Octagon. The former long-reigning welterweight champion continues his move up to middleweight, where he hopes to begin another title run. 

Although this will be his first full middleweight appearance, Usman already showed he can compete with the division’s elite when he stepped in on short notice against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294 and pushed him all the way. 

His most recent victory came against Joaquin Buckley, where Usman reminded fans why he was once considered one of the UFC’s most complete fighters. He relied heavily on his elite wrestling, controlled the fight from start to finish and proved he still has the skills needed to compete at the highest level. 

Now, he faces one of the division’s most dangerous opponents in Du Plessis as he looks to announce himself as a genuine middleweight contender. 

What’s at Stake? 

The middleweight division has changed significantly over the past year, creating opportunities for several top contenders. Sean Strickland currently sits on the throne, but the next title challenger has yet to be confirmed. 

Both Du Plessis and Usman have history with the champion. Du Plessis owns two victories over Strickland, while Usman defeated him earlier in his career during their time at welterweight. 

A convincing win in Oklahoma City could be enough to place either fighter at the front of the queue for a future championship fight. 

It’s a Dricus du Plessis fight week 🇿🇦🔥

Can’t wait to watch another masterclass performance by DDP #UFCOKC #MMA pic.twitter.com/jPpQoAtsT4

— Diego (@woza_diego) July 16, 2026

Fight Breakdown 

This matchup brings together two very different styles. 

Du Plessis is known for his constant forward pressure, powerful striking and ability to overwhelm opponents with his pace. He is always searching for a finish and rarely gives his opponents time to settle. 

Usman, meanwhile, has built his career on world-class wrestling, excellent fight IQ and strong cardio. If he can control where the fight takes place and slow Du Plessis’ aggressive attacks, he has every chance of earning another statement victory. 

The opening rounds could be key. Du Plessis will likely look to push the pace early, while Usman may try to wear him down with clinch work and takedowns before taking control later in the fight. 

Prediction 

This is a difficult fight to call. Usman’s experience, wrestling and championship pedigree make him a dangerous opponent, especially if he can dictate the pace. However, Du Plessis is younger, naturally bigger at middleweight and has already proven he belongs among the division’s elite. 

Bet on boxing and expect a competitive battle with momentum swinging throughout the contest. If Du Plessis can defend the takedowns and keep the fight standing, his power and pressure should give him the edge. 

Prediction: Dricus Du Plessis to win by unanimous decision.