Kamaru Usman Wants Dricus Du Plessis in Historic Africa vs. Africa Showdown
Kamaru Usman Wants Dricus Du Plessis in Historic Africa vs. Africa Showdown originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Dricus Du Plessis is back in the gym, locked in and laser-focused as he preps for his headline war against the ever-dangerous Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 this August. The South African warrior isn’t just tuning up for another bout — he’s igniting waves across the division. Whispers are already circulating after a standout from UFC Atlanta made it clear: he’s watching, he’s waiting, and he wants next.
Kamaru Usman, the “Nigerian Nightmare,” reminded everyone why his name still carries weight. At UFC Atlanta, he turned back the clock with a commanding unanimous decision over Joaquin Buckley.
It wasn’t just a win — it was a statement. His first victory since 2022 and a much-needed rebound after a tough skid, including his last outing against Chimaev at UFC 294. Speaking to TMZ Sports in a video that Red Corner MMA quickly amplified, Usman dropped a bombshell:
‘After getting the welterweight belt, they [UFC] have asked and waited years for me to go up and get the middleweight belt. I will relinquish that if Dricus Du Plessis is still the champion — all-African card. Africa vs. Africa, first card in Africa. UFC is close to getting that done. South Africa vs. Nigeria — it’s a rivalry that’s been built forever.’
‘If things start to fall in line, I think we’re gonna see a pretty interesting next 18 months.’
Kamaru Usman plans to fight Dricus Du Plessis in Africa on UFC’s first Africa card — South Africa vs Nigeria 🇿🇦🇳🇬
“After getting the welterweight belt, they [UFC] have asked and waited years for me to go up and get the middleweight belt. I will relinquish that if Dricus Du… pic.twitter.com/VpNFVEM6Az
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) June 18, 2025
Dana White, never shy about global ambitions, told Sports Business Journal:
‘I’m looking to go into Africa for the first time. We have a champion from South Africa… I’m looking to go everywhere, everywhere on this planet we’re going to end up doing a live event.’
A Du Plessis vs. Usman matchup? That’s not just fireworks — that’s a global moment in the making. Two African titans, one historic card. The world will be watching.
Related: Ben Askren: New Update Reveals Emotional Details on UFC Veteran’s Ongoing Health Battle
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
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