A high stakes showdown between former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman and former middleweight titleholder Dricus Du Plessis is expected to headline the July 18 event, giving fans a matchup packed with questions, pressure, and major divisional implications. The UFC is heading back to Oklahoma for the first time in more than nine years, and the promotion is bringing one of the most intriguing fights of the year with it.
The fight arrives at a fascinating point in both men’s careers. Usman is attempting to prove he still belongs among the elite after a difficult stretch, while Du Plessis is aiming to rebuild momentum following his title loss to Khamzat Chimaev.
UFC brings major event back to Oklahoma
The UFC’s return to Oklahoma has already generated strong interest because of the long gap since the promotion’s last visit to the state. Pairing that comeback with a headline fight featuring two former champions immediately raises the stakes.
Usman remains one of the most accomplished fighters of the modern UFC era. During his championship reign, he established himself as one of the promotion’s most dominant welterweights, putting together a stunning 19 fight winning streak while defeating some of the biggest names in the division.
However, the momentum that once defined his career slowed dramatically after consecutive defeats to Leon Edwards. Another setback against Khamzat Chimaev pushed Usman into unfamiliar territory, leaving many wondering whether his championship years were behind him.
Last June, Usman finally returned to winning ways with a victory over Joaquin Buckley. The performance may not have completely erased concerns surrounding his future, but it reminded the MMA world that he remains a dangerous competitor capable of competing at the highest level.
Now, the challenge becomes even tougher.
Dricus Du Plessis looks to bounce back after title defeat
Dricus Du Plessis enters the matchup at 32 years old and still appears to be in the middle of his prime. The South African star built his reputation on relentless pressure, finishing ability, and an awkward style that has consistently troubled opponents.
Before losing the middleweight title to Chimaev at UFC 319, Du Plessis had established himself as one of the division’s most difficult puzzles to solve. His rise included major victories over top contenders and historic success as the first South African UFC champion.
Despite the title loss, confidence around Du Plessis remains high.
During a recent appearance in New York around UFC 328 festivities, the former champion hinted that a major fight announcement was close.
My next fight announcement is coming soon
Du Plessis revealed while speaking during his media rounds in the city.
The timing of that statement now lines up perfectly with reports linking him to the Oklahoma headliner against Usman.
Du Plessis also looked relaxed during his New York visit, sharing photos and videos across social media while interacting with supporters and spending time around the UFC event atmosphere. Still, beneath the calm appearance was a fighter eager to return to competition after months away from the cage.
He later confirmed that preparations for his comeback are already underway as he targets another run toward UFC gold.
Betting odds favor Dricus Du Plessis ahead of UFC Oklahoma
Oddsmakers have already installed Du Plessis as the favorite heading into the matchup.
Current betting lines place Du Plessis at minus 230, while Usman enters as a plus 195 underdog. Those numbers suggest sportsbooks see the younger and more active Du Plessis as the likely winner.
The odds reflect several factors beyond recent form. Du Plessis has remained one of the sport’s most physically imposing middleweights, while Usman will be approaching 40 years old by the time the fight takes place.
Still, counting out Usman has rarely been a smart move throughout his career.
The Nigerian American veteran has repeatedly shown elite fight IQ, championship composure, and the ability to adapt under pressure. Even during his recent setbacks, Usman remained competitive against world class opposition.
For Du Plessis, the fight offers an opportunity to secure another marquee victory and quickly place himself back into title contention. Defeating a former pound for pound king like Usman would strengthen his case for another championship opportunity.
A pivotal fight for both former champions
Beyond the excitement surrounding the UFC’s return to Oklahoma, the matchup itself carries enormous significance for both fighters.
Usman is fighting to prove he still belongs among the sport’s elite after several difficult years. Another loss could seriously damage his path back toward title contention.
Dricus Du Plessis, meanwhile, wants to show that his defeat to Chimaev was only a temporary setback rather than the beginning of a decline.
The contrasting styles also make the matchup compelling. Usman’s disciplined wrestling and calculated pressure will test Du Plessis’ unpredictability and aggression. Both fighters carry finishing ability, and both understand how important a statement victory could be at this stage of their careers.
With July 18 approaching, UFC Oklahoma already looks positioned to become one of the summer’s most important fight cards.
For Usman and Du Plessis, it may also become a defining night for what comes next in their careers.
Follow FIGHTCORE for more updates.
