Du Plessis Overpowers Usman at UFC Fight Night 281

Du Plessis Returns to Victory Lane

Dricus Du Plessis captured a unanimous decision win over former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, snapping a two‑fight title streak that ended with a loss to Khamzat Chimaev. The 32‑year‑old from South Africa displayed his signature unorthodox style, mixing explosive power with nontraditional technique throughout the 25‑minute bout at Paycom Center. Du Plessis rocked Usman multiple times, especially in the second round where he seemed closest to closing the fight. The victory improves his UFC record to 10‑1 and re‑establishes him as a top contender in the welterweight division.

Usman, 39, with a career MMA mark of 21‑5 and UFC record of 16‑4, appeared confused after the official scorecards were read. He admitted the performance was “an off night” but vowed he remains capable of competing with the world’s elite. The decision drops Usman to a 1‑4 mark in his last five fights, with his last win coming against Joaquin Buckley in June 2025. Prior to that, he had not fought since the Buckley victory.

Key Fight Details

The judges’ cards read 50‑45, 49‑46, and 49‑46 in favor of Du Plessis, sealing a comfortable win for the South African. Du Plessis’ best round came in the second, where he landed a series of hard strikes that sent Usman wobbling on several occasions. Usman staged a late rally in the fifth round, forcing Du Plessis toward the cage, but the comeback attempt fell short. After the fight, Du Plessis praised the Oklahoma City crowd and acknowledged the challenge Usman presented.

The bout marked Du Plessis’ resurgence following an August 2025 loss to Khamzat Chimaev, where he relinquished the middleweight title. The win not only erases that defeat but also reinforces his standing among the division’s top fighters. Usman’s stumble continues a downward trend, leaving questions about his viability at age 39 against the current top‑tier competition.

Recent Fight Timeline

• June 2025: Usman defeated Joaquin Buckley at welterweight.
• August 2025: Du Plessis lost the middleweight title to Khamzat Chimaev.
• July 2026: Du Plessis outpointed Usman at UFC Fight Night 281 in Oklahoma City.

These results highlight a clear shift in momentum for both fighters. Du Plessis is back on the win column, while Usman’s recent record suggests a need for adjustment as he looks to remain competitive at 39. The Oklahoma City showdown provides a roadmap for what could be a new chapter in both athletes’ careers.