Kamaru Usman is already facing physical challenges as he gears up for his return to the UFC octagon.
The fighter known as “The Nigerian Nightmare” is set to compete for the first time in almost two years when he takes on Joaquin Buckley at UFC Atlanta on June 14th.
This comeback fight for the former UFC Welterweight champion against Buckley is seen as a crucial step, with Usman aiming for a title shot in the near future should he secure a victory.
Persistent injuries were the reason for his extended break, but even after this time away, Usman acknowledges that he isn`t feeling completely healthy just days before the scheduled bout.
Usman on His Health Status
As he prepares for UFC Atlanta, lingering injuries and a demanding training camp have prevented Usman from feeling in peak condition for his UFC return.
Speaking with SHAK MMA, Usman confessed that he doesn`t feel 100% healthy, attributing this to the intense nature of his training camp.
Usman stated: “Going through a training camp definitely makes you feel like you’re not healthy, I’ll tell you that. Getting punched and beaten up by training partners like Justin, Archie, and some of these guys definitely makes you feel otherwise.
“But I’m just blessed for the opportunity to be back. I’m blessed to have another chance to step in, and I’m blessed not just to represent myself and my family, but also my instructors, my coaches, my training partners.
“So yeah, it’s a wonderful feeling to be back.”
Usman`s First Fight in Almost Two Years
It has been nearly two years since Usman last competed in the octagon. He is eager to snap his losing streak and make another push for the UFC Welterweight title.
His extended break followed a loss to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294, which marked his third consecutive defeat. Prior to that, he suffered back-to-back losses to Leon Edwards in 2022 and 2023, resulting in the loss of his world title belt.
At 38 years old and having dealt with numerous persistent issues with his right knee (problems that might have led a less resilient fighter to retire), he is widely considered to be competing on “borrowed time” as a top UFC contender.
A victory over Buckley at UFC Atlanta is therefore crucial for his continued career in the UFC, though it presents a significant challenge after nearly two years away from active competition.
