Kamaru Usman is set to return to the UFC Octagon this weekend in Atlanta, marking the end of a two-year break from fighting. The former welterweight champion will face rising star Joaquin Buckley, a bout that could pave the way for a high-profile showdown with Islam Makhachev next year. Alongside his fighting career, Usman has already made a footprint in entertainment, signaling ambitions beyond mixed martial arts.

The Transition from Octagon to Silver Screen

Usman’s debut in the film industry came with a role as a naval officer in the critically acclaimed movie Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The movie’s success and his involvement position him well for future acting opportunities, including an expected return in the franchise’s next installment. In addition, Usman ventured into music entertainment by appearing in the music video for “B. D’or,” a collaboration between award-winning artists Burna Boy and WizKid. These projects highlight a potential new career path for the athlete once his UFC tenure concludes.

Usman Reflects on the Commitment Required in Acting

Discussing his experience on the Black Panther set, Usman expressed deep respect for the dedication actors demonstrate daily. He acknowledged the long hours and repetitive nature of filming scenes, contrasting it with his own profession as a UFC fighter.

I didn’t go into it with the expectation of ‘Oh everyone…I need to be seen in this movie so I can continue to get roles and do things, you know. I understand. I am a UFC welterweight fighter, and that’s my first job, and so with this, it was just a cool experience to be able to see it,

— Kamaru Usman, former UFC welterweight champion

I was able to see such professionals work, some of the biggest professionals do their scenes over and over again with the same intensity, 13 hours a day,

— Kamaru Usman, former UFC welterweight champion

What’s Next for Usman: UFC Goals and Beyond

Although Usman appears eager to explore acting further, his immediate focus remains on his scheduled fight in Atlanta. A victory over Buckley could set up a major title bout with Islam Makhachev, providing a dramatic crescendo to his MMA career. Simultaneously, his growing involvement in entertainment suggests that once he steps away from competition, Usman may pursue new opportunities in Hollywood and beyond.