Du Plessis Dominates Usman in UFC Return

Dricus du Plessis made a successful return to the UFC octagon on Saturday, defeating Kamaru Usman by unanimous decision. This marks du Plessis's first bout since he lost the middleweight championship in mid-August 2025 to Khamzat Chimaev. Du Plessis, who held the middleweight belt from January 2024, showcased a strong performance against the former welterweight champion.

The fight, which took place at UFC 309, saw du Plessis control the pace and land significant strikes throughout the contest. Judges scored the bout 29-28, 29-28, and 30-27 in favor of the South African fighter. Usman, a two-time welterweight champion, was making his own return after a period of inactivity, but could not overcome du Plessis's offensive pressure.

With this victory, du Plessis reasserts his position in the middleweight division's contender landscape. His previous reign as champion was marked by a successful defense against Sean Strickland before his eventual loss to Chimaev. The win over Usman, a highly respected veteran, provides du Plessis with significant momentum as he aims to reclaim the middleweight title.