Kamaru Usman Addresses Eye Injury and Future After Decision Loss to Du Plessis
Kamaru Usman shared his thoughts on the unanimous decision loss to Dricus Du Plessis in a post-fight octagon interview at UFC Oklahoma City. The former welterweight champion expressed clear disappointment with the scorecards while acknowledging the challenge posed by his opponent.
Usman noted the judges’ 50-45 score and said he felt the bout was closer than the cards indicated. He still gave credit to Du Plessis, describing him as a tough competitor who made the fight difficult over five rounds.
An early eye injury played a significant role in how the contest unfolded. Usman explained that a thumb to the eye early in the fight limited his ability to judge distance properly and disrupted the game plan he had prepared.
The damage forced adjustments that made it harder to implement his usual approach. Despite the setback, Usman continued competing through the full 25 minutes and reached the final bell.
At 39 years old, Usman made clear he still believes in his abilities inside the Octagon. He said the next step involves returning to his gym to evaluate the performance and determine the right path forward.
Usman left the door open regarding weight class. He indicated he remains willing to compete at either welterweight or middleweight depending on the opportunities that present themselves.
These comments come after a five-round main event that tested Usman’s durability against a larger middleweight opponent. The eye issue adds context to the statistical disparity in striking that appeared on the official scorecards.
Usman’s willingness to discuss the injury and his future shows a pragmatic approach following the defeat. Fighters in the later stages of their careers often use such moments to reset and identify the most realistic options still available.
The middleweight and welterweight divisions both remain competitive. Usman’s openness to either weight class keeps multiple matchup possibilities on the table as he recovers and reassesses.
Returning to the gym will give him time to address the eye injury and review film from the Du Plessis bout. That process typically helps veterans decide whether to continue at the current pace or adjust their schedule.
Usman’s post-fight remarks reflect both frustration with the outcome and continued confidence in his skill set. The combination of honesty about the early damage and a measured outlook on the future provides a clear picture of where he stands after the Oklahoma City main event.
As he steps away from the immediate aftermath, the focus shifts to recovery and the next conversation with his team. The decisions that follow will determine whether Usman remains active at 185 pounds or returns to the division where he first built his championship résumé.
