The UFC world is buzzing with excitement as Kamaru Usman returns to action against rising sensation Joaquin Buckley at UFC Fight Night in Atlanta. Belal Muhammad is no exception to this rising fad. This clash is significant for Usman, given that he lost his last battle against Khamzat Chimaev in 2023.
Buckley is a tough contender, despite being a rising star. His knockout of Leon Edwards was a testament to the striking flair he brings to the mix. Muhammad, who suffered a defeat against Jack Della Maddalena in his last bout, dropped a tactical shade for Buckley in his all-important fight against Kamaru.
Belal Muhammad Has Massive Advice for Joaquin Buckley Ahead of Kamaru Usman’s Challenge
It is well-known that Usman banks heavily upon his hard striking to derail his opponents. Muhammad said that Buckley will have to be razor-sharp on his feet to counter Usman’s insane intensity. Muhammad insisted that right from the start, Buckley will need to move fast and counter Usman’s intensity.
Muhammad also stated that if there is one thing that is forbidden to defend against The Nigerian Nightmare, it is to get pushed against the fence. He highlighted Usman’s prowess in dragging the tempo in his favor and eventually ruling the roost from there. He also highlighted the fact that Usman loves to roll on the mat, which tires his foes down.
Talking on his YouTube channel, Muhammad said, “When the bell rings, put your foot on the gas and go. Making it difficult for Usman to set his pace, catch his rhythm. Number two, do not get pushed on the fence. Usman is very good at pushing you on the fence, slowing the fight down, going at his pace, wearing you on, taking you down, making you get back up, wearing on you. He has a lot of five round experience. So for Buckley, do not keep your back on the fence. If your b*tt hits the ground, you need to get up quick. Keep in on your feet. That’s where your world is. You have a lot of power. You have the speed advantage, and right now you got the momentum.”
In what is going to be an era-defining battle for New Mansa, he would be keen on keeping Usman down. A win for him will only cement his legacy as one of the toughest contenders to ever enter the octagon, while Usman will be driving as hard as he can to try and return to winning ways.
Kamaru Usman Does Not Want to Fight Belal Muhammad Anymore
During the UFC Atlanta media day, Usman made it very clear that he is not taking on Belal Muhammad anymore. He also spilled the beans on why he doesn’t want to cross paths with Muhammad anymore, citing a lack of motivation. He also wished him luck after his defeat against JDM in his last bout.
Usman said, “Now here’s the thing: when Belal Muhammad was champion, there was a reason to fight Belal Muhammad. He had the title. Let’s be honest here, we’re not the best of friends, but I don’t wish him any bad. But what do you have to offer me? You going to give me a side deal? You going to throw me a little extra cash on the side? If he’s willing to do that, maybe. But who knows? I hope he’s recovering well. That was a tough loss. Hopefully, he bounces back.”
Kamaru Usman isn’t interested in a fight with Belal Muhammad anymore
“When Belal Muhammad was champion, there was a reason to fight Belal. He had a title…
What do you have to offer me? You gonna throw me a little extra cash?”
🎥 @ufc #UFCAtlantapic.twitter.com/UtsiADCPZa
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 11, 2025
Usman made it clear that he wants to fight for the title. He is not in the cage to garner cash. He is focused on creating a legacy that people will be talking very proudly about. That is one of the reasons why this bout against Joaquin Buckley is going to be a personal one for Usman Kamaru.