Du Plessis defeats Usman via unanimous decision at UFC Oklahoma City

Dricus Du Plessis secured a dominant victory over Kamaru Usman via unanimous decision at UFC Oklahoma City on July 19, 2026, at the Paycom Center. The five-round middleweight main event saw Du Plessis, the former UFC middleweight champion, outpoint Usman across all three judges' scorecards (50-45, 49-46, 49-46). The win marked Du Plessis's first fight since losing his title to Khamzat Chimaev in August 2025, ending a nine-fight UFC win streak.

Usman, a former welterweight champion and once considered the sport's number one pound-for-pound fighter, competed at middleweight—15 pounds heavier than his traditional division. The 39-year-old fought with notable heart throughout the bout, absorbing significant offense from Du Plessis's striking, including head kicks and power punches, but remained competitive and pushed the contest to the scorecards. Usman, at age 32, showcased his wrestling pedigree and veteran experience, though Du Plessis's physical advantages and striking volume proved decisive across the five rounds.

The event marked the UFC's first fight card in Oklahoma City since 2017. UFC President Dana White attended after making a last-minute decision to divert his flight from New York, landing to watch the main event live. White praised the crowd and venue, stating "the crowd here is incredible" and expressing his commitment to return to the city for future events. "We'll be back. I don't know how soon, but I love it here," White said at the post-fight press conference. Regarding Du Plessis's title prospects, White deferred detailed discussion, saying he would "go back to the lab on Tuesday" before making fight decisions. On Usman's future, White noted that the veteran performed well against a significantly larger opponent and suggested Usman should rest and decide his next steps.