UFC Atlanta Usman’s Comeback, Buckley’s Breakout, and a Whole Lotta Smoke

The Octagon touches down in the ATL this Saturday, and it’s looking like State Farm Arena might straight-up explode. We’ve got legends trying to run it back, wildcards ready to shock the world, and some serious prospect heat. Let’s run it.

Main Event: Kamaru Usman vs. Joaquin Buckley

Old guard vs. new wave.

• Usman (20–4) is back after some time away. 38, yes, but still built like a Marvel character and looking to remind folks why he used to run 170.

• Buckley (21–6) is on a heater. Six wins in a row, and yeah — that TKO over Covington? Still echoing. My man also wants to get this win back for Tyron Woodley.

What’s at stake?

Usman’s legacy. Buckley’s shot at the throne. This is a “make or break” for both — and they know it.

Prediction: Buckley’s gonna swing with heat, but if Usman gets his hands on him? We’re going to the mat, fast. Could be a classic striker vs. wrestler chess match — or a highlight-reel finish waiting to happen. Either way, as long as both brothers make it out healthy, it's a win for the community.

Co-Main: Rose Namajunas vs. Miranda Maverick

Thug Rose drops back in at 125 — new division, same calm killer energy. But Miranda Maverick is no warm-up fight. Four straight wins, all grit, no quit.

What’s the vibe?

Rose has the experience, but Maverick’s hungry — and hungry fighters are dangerous. Expect slick grappling, sharp striking, and maybe a surprise.

Main Card Lookin’ Real Tasty

• Michael Chiesa vs. Court McGee – Old-school scrap. Expect jiu-jitsu chess and a lotta sweat.

• Mansur Abdul‑Malik vs. Cody Brundage – Undefeated blue-chipper vs. brawler with dog in him. Someone’s getting tested.

• Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Andre Petroski – Edmen’s redemption arc or Petroski’s party? Flip a coin.

• Cody Garbrandt vs. Raoni Barcelos – Is the old Cody back? Or is this another heartbreak chapter?

• Alonzo Menifield vs. Oumar Sy – Rescheduled beef. Big boys throwing big leather. Enough said.

Fighter Shout outs!

• Kris Moutinho is back in the UFC. Go be great! The community is pulling for you.

• Phil Rowe is EARLY on the card but I believe will deliver the biggest KO of the card. Be great, homie!

Fight Night Schedule

• Prelims: 7 PM ET on ESPN+

• Main Card: 10 PM ET on ESPN/ESPN+

Final Take

UFC Atlanta is about to deliver everything — redemption stories, statement wins, maybe even some broken dreams. Usman’s trying to prove he’s still him. Buckley’s trying to show he’s next. Rose is back. And the undercard? Wild.

This ain’t just another fight night — this is one of those sneaky cards that people talk about all year.

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