Kamaru Usman faces a critical challenge against Joaquin Buckley at UFC Atlanta, as he seeks to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. This welterweight showdown, set for June 14 at the State Farm Arena, is a key moment for Usman to reignite his quest to reclaim the UFC welterweight title.

The clash comes nearly three years after Usman was famously knocked out by Leon Edwards, a defeat from which he has yet to recover with a victory. The UFC’s return to Atlanta after recent events in Newark and Azerbaijan adds further spotlight on the bout, making the stakes even higher for the former champion.

Stephen Thompson Emphasizes the Importance of Wrestling Against Buckley

Stephen Thompson, a seasoned UFC welterweight contender, recently outlined his take on the upcoming fight during an interview with Bodog Canada. Having personally suffered a dramatic knockout from Buckley at UFC 307 last October, Thompson is fully aware of the threat Buckley poses inside the Octagon.

He cautioned that Usman must rely on his wrestling to secure a win, pointing to Buckley’s strong striking and solid takedown defense. Thompson observed that Buckley’s recent performance against Colby Covington showcased his power and explosiveness.

Been a while since Usman fought,

Thompson said. Buckley, man, he’s killing it right now. You saw what he did with Colby Covington. You saw those two fights with Usman and Colby.

I think it’s a very tough fight for Usman. Buckley’s strong, he’s got great striking, he’s explosive, takedown defense is on point.

If he can keep the fight standing, I think Buckley’s got it,

Thompson added.

Gilbert Burns Advises Usman to Mix Tactics and Apply Pressure to Counter Buckley

Gilbert Burns, another UFC welterweight contender and former teammate of Usman, shared a similar opinion on the fight. In his Show Me The Money podcast, Burns reflected on past experiences with Buckley and offered strategic advice for Usman.

Burns stressed the need for Usman to combine striking with wrestling, rather than relying on one discipline alone. Citing a wrestler who dominated Buckley before, Burns suggested that wearing Buckley down through ground control could be key. He also noted that Usman’s decline began when he moved away from mixing his skills.

Buckley is very muscular, very strong. If he lets Buckley out of pressure, Buckley is very, very dangerous. I think the way for Kamaru is to put pressure. I hope he wins. I think he can.

Despite concerns about Usman’s recent struggles with knee injuries, Burns remains hopeful that Usman can recapture the dominant grappling form that once made him a legendary welterweight champion.

Looking Ahead: Buckley’s Power as a Defining Factor in Usman’s Title Hopes

The fight at UFC Atlanta represents a significant test not only for Usman’s physical readiness but also for his tactical adaptability against an opponent known for explosive knockout threats. Joaquin Buckley’s recent performances have elevated him as a serious contender capable of ending Usman’s aspirations of regaining the welterweight crown.

As the event approaches, Usman must prove he can impose his wrestling game to neutralize Buckley’s striking. Failure to do so could result in another devastating loss, potentially ending any immediate hopes of reclaiming the title he once held.

This bout will not only affect the trajectories of both fighters but could also reshape the dynamics of the UFC welterweight division moving forward.