UFC OKC Fight Night: Du Plessis vs. Usman Main Event Preview

The Paycom Center will host UFC OKC this Saturday, July 18, 2026, as Oklahoma City gets a glimpse of the UFC’s top talent. The biggest matchup, former Middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis squaring off against longtime Welterweight king Kamaru Usman, stays on the card despite the drama unfolding behind the scenes. Kevin Holland’s sudden withdrawal from his planned fight with Jacobe Smith creates a noticeable dip in excitement for a non‑Apex event, yet the remaining bouts still promise competitive flashes.

Middleweight Showdown: Jared Cannonier Takes On Christian Leroy Duncan

Jared Cannonier, listed at (+235), faces Christian Leroy Duncan, the –320 favorite. Cannonier’s recent losses have come against top‑level opponents, yet he remains explosive and well‑conditioned at age 42. Duncan, on the other hand, has won four straight fights and refined his spinning‑strike game after early defensive struggles. The bout pits a durable veteran against a rising striker, with the 12‑year age gap likely shaping the pacing. Analysts see momentum as the key factor, leaning toward Duncan’s momentum and physicality. Prediction: Duncan via decision.

Lightweight Duel: Chase Hooper Looks to End a Rough Streak Against Mitch Ramirez

Chase Hooper, the –390 favorite, meets Mitch Ramirez, who sits at (+280). Hooper’s game blends slick grappling with high‑volume kickboxing, though recent opponents have exposed vulnerabilities by countering his forward pressure. Ramirez, a heavy hitter, is still searching for his first UFC win and shows promise as a puncher but lacks depth against elite competition. Both fighters are coming off consecutive losses, making this a potential rebound storyline. The disparity in experience and fighting style likely gives Hooper the edge in a submission scenario. Prediction: Hooper via submission.

Strawweight Clash: Tabatha Ricci’s Small Frame Versus Fatima Kline’s Rising Momentum

Tabatha Ricci, a +285 underdog, faces Fatima Kline, the –400 favorite. Ricci’s judo background lets her control larger opponents despite her petite stature, while Kline boasts a jiu‑jitsu black belt and improving stand‑up after a tough UFC debut loss. Both fighters carry recent setbacks, but Kline’s three‑fight winning streak suggests she is closing the gap after early hurdles. The size and physicality difference will be a key storyline, yet Kline’s progression and scrambling ability could tilt the balance in later rounds. Prediction: Kline via decision.

Featherweight Showdown: Tommy McMillen Takes On Alberto Montes in a Talent‑Heavy Clash

Tommy McMillen, the –128 favorite, squares off against Alberto Montes, the +100 underdog. McMillen’s 17‑fight amateur and pro win streak highlights his natural athleticism, though he can be sloppy in defense. Montes, meanwhile, has secured five successive victories via anaconda or d’arce chokes, showcasing technical finesse despite modest arm length. Both fighters are fresh off UFC wins, bringing untested hunger to a stacked division. Observers see size and power favoring McMillen, while Montes’ crisp mechanics could create upset potential. Prediction: McMillen via knockout.

The UFC OKC card, despite missing an Apex-level headliner, still offers a clear narrative of veteran resilience versus rising talent across multiple divisions. The main event of du Plessis versus Usman remains the marquee draw, anchoring the evening’s storytelling. Fighters like Cannonier and Ricci will test the limits of age and size, while younger prospects such as Kline and Montes signal the division’s evolving depth. Fans can expect a mix of strategic battles and explosive finishes as the organization builds toward the summer surge.