Kamaru Usman contemplating ‘whether it’s worth continuing to do this’ after lopsided loss to Dricus du Plessis - MMA Fighting

What the report says

MMA Fighting reported that Kamaru Usman is openly weighing his future in mixed martial arts after a one-sided decision loss to Dricus du Plessis in the UFC Oklahoma City main event. The bout took place July 18, 2026, at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, with Usman competing at middleweight. In comments on his Pound-for-Pound podcast, the former UFC welterweight champion said he needs to consult his coaches, team and family before deciding whether to take another fight or retire.

Usman, 39, framed the setback as different from previous defeats because he felt he did not meet the standard he expects of himself. He contrasted the du Plessis fight with losses to Leon Edwards and Khamzat Chimaev, saying he had previously found reasons to believe he performed credibly or had something to build on. Against du Plessis, he acknowledged that, at least from the outside, it could appear he had taken on too much.

According to MMA Fighting, Usman has not set a timeline for a decision. He also indicated that the immediate question is not whether to remain at middleweight or return to welterweight, but whether continuing to compete is worthwhile given the physical and emotional toll on him and those around him.

The moment is significant because Usman is widely regarded as one of the top welterweights in UFC history after a championship reign and multiple high-profile title fights. If he steps away, MMA Fighting noted he would leave with a résumé likely to put him in the UFC Hall of Fame conversation.