Kamaru Usman's manager confirms fighter plans to return to welterweight
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 1:40 PM
Last updated Aug 6, 2026
Kamaru Usman's manager, Ali Abdelaziz, stated that Usman will not retire following his recent loss to Dricus Du Plessis at UFC Fight Night 281 in July. Despite falling to 1-4 in his last five fights, Abdelaziz believes Usman should return to the welterweight division, where he was previously champion. Usman, 39, has expressed uncertainty about his future, but Abdelaziz insists he still has much to offer in MMA. He highlighted Usman's resilience in competition, suggesting numerous compelling matchups await him at welterweight.
- •Kamaru Usman lost to Dricus Du Plessis via unanimous decision.
- •Abdelaziz believes Usman should return to welterweight.
- •Usman is currently 1-4 in his last five fights.
- •Abdelaziz calls Usman a future Hall of Famer.
- •Usman is 39 years old and still has potential future matchups.
- 1:40 PMYahoo Sports — Manager: 'Kamaru Usman is not going to retire,' should return to 170
"Kamaru Usman's manager, Ali Abdelaziz, thinks the former UFC champ should return to the division where he held gold.
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