Kamaru Usman ended his losing skid on Saturday, securing a unanimous decision win against American opponent Joaquin Buckley.
‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ entered the bout following three consecutive losses.
The welterweight clash featured former champion and fifth-ranked Usman against seventh-ranked Buckley, headlining the UFC Atlanta event at State Farm Arena.
Usman, last seen in action in October 2023, was determined to reclaim victory against Buckley.
Buckley arrived with momentum, riding a six-fight winning streak. His most recent triumph came in December when he defeated former interim titleholder Colby Covington via doctor stoppage. With 15 knockouts among his 27 career wins, Buckley posed a formidable challenge.
Yet, Usman halted Buckley’s streak. After five rounds, all three judges scored the fight 49-46 in Usman’s favor.