UFC Atlanta delivered an evening filled with compelling storylines on its main card, even without any finishes. Fans witnessed the remarkable return of Kamaru Usman, who secured his first victory since 2021. Additionally, Rose Namajunas improved her record to 3-2 in the flyweight division, as former champions went 2-1 on the night. Let’s break down the outcomes and explore what’s next for the standout fighters from UFC Atlanta.
Kamaru Usman, known as "The Nigerian Nightmare," came back strong after a challenging period. After suffering three consecutive losses and enduring a 20-month layoff, Usman faced Joaquin Buckley, who had been on a six-fight winning streak at welterweight. Usman's takedown prowess proved decisive, as he nullified Buckley’s offense and secured a clear victory. Post-fight, Usman expressed his desire for a title shot, but with his age at 38 and a competitive welterweight title picture, he may need one more win before getting another opportunity. A high-profile matchup against rising star Ian Machado Garry could be in the cards, but a longstanding rivalry with Belal Muhammad might also serve as the next chapter for Usman now that both are no longer champions.
For Rose Namajunas, the co-main event marked a critical moment. She claimed a unanimous decision victory over emerging contender Miranda Maverick, moving her flyweight record to 3-2. Namajunas faced tough competition in her previous losses against Manon Fiorot and Erin Blanchfield, but her resilience shone through with this essential win. Her popularity keeps her in the mix for title contention, meaning she's poised to challenge for a top-five ranking. A fight against fellow former champion Alexa Grasso appears likely, especially as both fighters seek to reestablish themselves at the top of the division. Fans are eager to see if Namajunas can maintain her momentum for the anticipated Noche card in San Antonio.
Edmen Shahbazyan showcased a new dimension in his fight against Andre Petroski, marking the first time he went the distance since his 2021 bout with Jack Hermansson. This decision victory also marked Shahbazyan's first winning streak since 2019, a crucial development for a fighter known for either securing quick knockouts or facing defeats later in fights. Shahbazyan's explosive style deserves an opponent who can match his energy. That’s why a clash with the winner of the upcoming matchup between Shara “Bullet” Magomedov and Marc-André Barriault could deliver a thrilling contest.
Raoni Barcelos had a significant night, bouncing back from a rough stretch that saw him go 1-4 between 2021 and 2023, including a devastating knockout loss. He rebounded with a submission win against Cristian Quiñonez, followed by an upset victory over Payton Talbott. His latest unanimous decision win against former champion Cody Garbrandt may not immediately earn him a ranking, but it sets him up well for future success. A matchup with Ricky Simón, a respected name in the division, would provide Barcelos with a prime opportunity to build a winning streak.
Mansur Abdul-Malik experienced a unique situation at UFC Atlanta, as his fight resulted in a technical decision due to a clash of heads. Though he did not achieve a traditional victory, this marked the first time he went to the judges' scorecards in his young career. Yet, at just 27 years old with only nine professional bouts under his belt, Abdul-Malik remains a developing talent in the UFC middleweight division. It’s essential to match him carefully as he progresses. An opponent like Ozzy Diaz would provide a suitable challenge as he continues to grow as a fighter.
Alonzo Menifield continued his winning ways, successfully defeating another undefeated fighter, Oumar Sy. While these victories may not be considered extraordinary, Menifield has now claimed two consecutive wins against fighters with perfect records. Having defended his ranking twice, the 37-year-old deserves another shot at a ranked opponent. Potential matchups against Johnny Walker or Zhang Mingyang could be exciting, but perhaps the loser of the Nikita Krylov vs. Bogdan Guskov fight would also serve as a fitting next step for Menifield.
In summary, the UFC Atlanta main card ignited fresh narratives and possibilities for its winners. As these fighters continue on their respective journeys, fans can anticipate thrilling matchups that will shape the future of their divisions.
