Kamaru Usman ‘grateful’ in first social media statement after UFC OKC loss

Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman issued his first social media remarks since losing to Dricus du Plessis.

Kamaru Usman’s return to the UFC middleweight division fell short last Saturday at UFC Oklahoma City. In his highly-anticipated comeback fight, Usman lost to former UFC middleweight titleholder Dricus du Plessis by unanimous decision in an instant classic battle.

Despite suffering from the jaws of defeat for the first time in a few years, Usman seemed in good spirits, as he made a rare appearance at the post-fight press conference. Fighters who lose in the Octagon rarely show up for post-fight media availabilities.

Usman’s place in UFC history remains cemented following UFC Oklahoma City. While the former welterweight champion hasn’t committed to a potential return to 170 lbs, he seemed to confirm that he has no plans of hanging up the gloves anytime soon.

Kamaru Usman issues social media statement after UFC Oklahoma City

In a recent Instagram post, Usman seemingly hinted at postponing his retirement plans following UFC Oklahoma City.

“Gratitude is the attitude. Grateful for another opportunity to ride this roller coaster,” Usman said.

“Thankful for my team, family, friends, and fans. Back to the drawing board we go. Big thank you to my team!”

Before losing to Du Plessis, Usman defeated welterweight knockout artist Joaquin Buckley at UFC Atlanta last year. The win snapped a three-fight skid, including back-to-back title fight losses to Leon Edwards.

Usman was presumed to fight UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev next after Makhachev’s win at UFC 322 last year. But the UFC matchmakers opted to pick Ian Machado Garry for the next welterweight title shot.

As for Du Plessis, he could be next in line for another UFC middleweight title shot against two-time rival Sean Strickland. Strickland could also potentially fight Khamzat Chimaev in an immediate rematch of their UFC 328 clash.

Should Kamaru Usman return to the welterweight division after UFC OKC? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!