UFC Oklahoma City Returns: Du Plessis vs. Usman Main Event

After almost ten years, the UFC is back in Oklahoma City. The event features two former champions headlining the card. Dricus du Plessis and Kamaru Usman will face off in the 185‑lb main event, showcasing a clash of styles and age. The UFC’s Crown rating for the card sits at a C- grade, but the high‑profile matchups drive the excitement.

185‑lb Headliner: Du Plessis Takes On Usman

Both fighters are stepping into the octagon after roughly twelve months of inactivity. Usman, 39, left the welterweight division after a majority decision loss to Khamzat Chimaev in October 2023 and is now 15 pounds heavier at middleweight. Du Plessis, 32, suffered the same title defeat to Chimaev in August 2025 at UFC 319 and is still viewed as a top‑tier contender.

Usman brings elite wrestling, capable of using single‑leg takedowns and mat control to dominate a striker like du Plessis. The former welterweight champ also retains an underrated striking punch, highlighted by a sharp jab that forced a stoppage against Jorge Masvidal in the past. Du Plessis, meanwhile, is a modern bruiser who looks to strike from angles opponents rarely see, and his age keeps him in the prime of his career. The oddsmakers list du Plessis at -250, with Usman at +200, reflecting confidence in the South African’s comeback.

The physical and competitive differences could create an X‑factor night. Age and inactivity add uncertainty, while du Plessis’s recent learning curve after a one‑sided loss makes this a test of growth. With many analysts expecting du Plessis to handle the wrestling pressure, the pick leans toward the -250 favorite. This scenario also highlights how age and inactivity can reshape a fighter’s resume.

185‑lb Co‑Main: Cannonier Faces Duncan

Both fighters are also on the same twelve‑month hiatus, having last appeared at UFC 319 in August 2025. Christian Leroy Duncan has built momentum with four consecutive victories, positioning himself as a rising star in the division. Jared Cannonier, at 42, still looks youthful but admits his recent performances have been slower, with three of his last four fights ending in decisions.

Cannonier’s most recent step up was from a bout against Michael “Venom” Page directly into this showdown, a stark increase in difficulty. Duncan’s youth, speed, and current winning streak make him the -350 favorite, while Cannonier’s age and recent slowdown place him at +275. The oddsmakers’ line suggests a clear tilt toward the challenger’s ascendancy. This momentum could position Duncan for a title shot later in the year.

Usman’s wrestling is still a potential weapon, but Duncan’s striking and footwork appear to match Cannonier’s style better. Analysts expect Duncan to continue his run and secure a win, keeping the momentum heading into future title contention.

155‑lb Showdown: Hooper Takes On Ramirez

Hooper entered the UFC after two tough losses to Lance Gibson and Alexander Hernandez, results that have kept bettors cautious despite his 26‑year‑old age and extensive amateur background. Ramirez, a lower‑profile opponent, offers a glass‑chin scenario for Hooper’s comeback narrative but also raises questions about the featherweight’s durability after previous beatings. The odds list Hooper as the -350 favorite, reflecting his experience and improved striking, while Ramirez sits at +275.

Even though the matchup appears lopsided, the coin‑flip nature of a young fighter’s rebound means the line could shift. Readers looking for a safe pick should still lean toward Hooper’s overall skill set. Hooper’s durability and technical evolution give him a competitive edge against Ramirez’s limited résumé.

Hooper’s ability to absorb punishment and his gradual technical development give him an edge. Nevertheless, the fight remains unpredictable given the wrestler’s past vulnerability to finishes. If Hooper can keep Ramirez on the back foot, the experience will likely dictate the winner.

115‑lb Showdown: Ricci Faces Kline

Fatima Kline is being hailed as the future of strawweight after a slow‑burn rise that includes training with elite grappler Erin Blanchfield. Tabatha Ricci brings grappling expertise of her own, making this a battle of wrestlers who look to control the fight on the mat. Kline’s striking creativity and faster work keep her as the -475 favorite, while Ricci sits at +360. The winner will likely reap the rewards of a deeper grappling game, giving either fighter a chance at a title run.

145‑lb Match: McMillen Takes On Montes

McMillen’s UFC debut was marked by underwhelming matchmaking, but the promotion appears invested in his long‑term potential. Montes, another debutant, faced past TUF winner Ricky Turcios before shining in a winning effort. McMillen brings a wild, high‑volume striking style that sometimes resembles slow‑motion action, while Montes brings a measured lateral stance and strong kicking game.

McMillen’s age and lack of refined technique make him vulnerable to a fighter who can strike cleanly and maintain distance. Montes’s composure under pressure and his ability to generate power from angles could expose McMillen’s defensive gaps. With both fighters listed as finishers, the fight could turn quickly if either lands a decisive blow. The odds list McMillen as -150, with Montes at +125, showing a clear tilt toward the technical stylist.

Preliminary Card Highlights

Austin Bashi returns after a debut loss and a subsequent win, though questions remain about his overall readiness. Dione Barbosa is back following a controversial win over Melissa Gatto and will be cautious about post‑fight strikes. Both fighters are still seeking to prove they belong among the division’s elite.

The rest of the prelims feature a mix of slugfights and grappling contests, with a series of quick picks that could inform early betting decisions.

Quick picks:

• Austin Bashi (+100) def. Jose Miguel Delgado (-120)

• Ko Seok-hyeon (-235) def. Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani (+190)

• Levi Rodrigues Jr. (-175) def. Felipe Franco (+145)

• Alden Coria (-1200) def. Stewart Nicoll (+750)

• Alvin Hines (-145) def. RJ Harris (+120)

• Dione Barbosa (-550) def. Anna Melisano (+400)

• Ezra Elliott (N/A) def. Damien Anderson (N/A)