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411’s UFC Fight Night: Du Plessis vs. Usman Report

July 19, 2026 | Posted by Robert Winfree
UFC Fight Night Du Plessis vs. Usman Image Credit: UFC

MAIN CARD (Paramount+, 8 p.m. ET)
#2 Dricus du Plessis (185.5 lbs.) vs. Kamaru Usman (186 lbs.)
#10 Jared Cannonier (185 lbs.) vs. #12 Christian Leroy Duncan (185.5 lbs.)
Chase Hooper (157.5 lbs.)* vs. Mitch Ramirez (155.5 lbs. lbs.)
#11 Fatima Kline (115.5 lbs.) vs. #8 Tabatha Ricci (116 lbs.)
Tommy McMillen (145 lbs.) vs. Alberto Montes (146 lbs.)

PRELIMINARY CARD (Paramount+, 5 p.m. ET)
Austin Bashi (145 lbs.) vs. Jose Delgado (146 lbs.)
Seokhyeon Ko (169 lbs.) vs. Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani (171 lbs.)
Felipe Franco (205 lbs.) vs. Levi Rodrigues (206 lbs.)
Damien Anderson (146 lbs.) vs. Ezra Elliott (147.5 lbs.)*
Alden Coria (126 lbs.) vs. Stewart Nicoll (126 lbs.)
R.J. Harris (262.5 lbs.) vs. Alvin Hines (264 lbs.)
Dione Barbosa (125 lbs.) vs. Alice Melisano (126 lbs.)

Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC Fight Night: Du Plessis vs. Usman, I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host. The UFC is back in Oklahoma for the first time in 9 years tonight and they’ve brought an OK card. The main event is quite interesting as former middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis comes back after about a year off after losing his title. Across from him is welterweight great Kamaru Usman, both men have some questions that the other should be able to ask because if Usman can get a win here then his prior win over Sean Strickland could put him into the title picture while du Plessis also has two wins over Strickland and wants the belt back. Things do fall off a bit after that but Jared Cannoneir tries to hold back rising talent Christian Leroy Duncan, Fatima Kline looks to continue her climb up the strawweight ranks, and on the prelims Seokhyeon Ko vs. Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani looks solid. Also flyweight prospect Alden Coria is back in action, jiu-jitsu standout Damien Anderson makes his UFC debut as well. So while it’s a tad bloated overall there’s definitely some gems worth considering here. Now, as always, let’s hope the action is good.

UFC Fight Night: Du Plessis vs. Usman comes to the world from the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA. We’ve got Brendan Fitzgerald as our lead commentator, he’ll be trying to wrangle the glorified podcast duo of Daniel Cormier and Michael Bisping. Megan Olivi will be our roving reporter while Joe Martinez handles announcing duties. We will be in the usual 30 foot cage, and I assume we’ll have the newer rules in play but will update if that turns out to be wrong.

Dione Barbosa (9-4) has traded wins and losses while going 3-2 in the UFC, she’s coming off of a win though and is looking for her first UFC winning streak. Anna Melisano (6-1) took this fight on fairly short notice but is riding a six fight winning streak, she normally fights at strawweight but has the chance to get a big win up a division here. All things considered it’s not surprising to see Barbosa as a hefty -650 favorite to Melisano’s +480.

Women’s Flyweight Bout: Dione Barbosa (9-4, 125 lbs.) vs. Alice Melisano (6-1, 126 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Barbosa is an inch and a half taller while Melisano has two and a half inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get going. A little range finding from Melisano early, she’s also showing stance switches while moving around. A few jabs go back and forth then Barbosa pushes into a clinch. Barbosa pushes things to the fence and lands a couple of knees while looking for a takedown, eventually she hits a lateral drop. Quick mount for Barbosa, she lands a few punches before Melisano shrimps to full guard. Melisano moves to turtle, Barbosa gets the back and starts fishing for a choke. Barbosa transitions back to top half guard. A few body to head punches from Barbosa as she looks to pass again. Arm triangle attack from Barbosa, she loses it but passes and gets the back in transition. Really nice back take there from Barbosa. Choke attack from Barbosa, more of a crank really and Melisano is able to hand fight successfully. Melisano is able to scramble up, Barbosa jumps to the backpack and grabs a tight choke. That goes for a bit but Melisano eventually has to tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Dione Barbosa via Submission, rear naked choke, at 4:04 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Ms. Barbosa for her work. Mic time for Barbosa after the win, she is very happy and will be ready for more fights this year then plays with the fans a bit. She talks us through the finish to close.

The finish can be seen HERE.

Alvin Hines dropped his UFC debut over a year ago then also had a drug test issue, now he’s finally back in action and looking for that all important first UFC win. RJ Harris took this fight on short notice but is undefeated and will be trying to make the most of his chance at a first impression here. The odds tilt towards Hines at -115 to -105 for Harris giving us technically a pick ’em situation.

Heavyweight Bout: R.J. Harris (5-0, 262.5 lbs.) vs. Alvin Hines (7-1, 264 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Harris is two inches taller with four and a half inches of reach advantage, he’s also 7 years younger. Hines comes out probing with some low kicks, both inside and outside. A few more calf kicks from Hines. Inside calf kick then a bit of a right hand from Hines. Harris lands a counter right hand then a bit of a left hook to follow it. Again Harris counters a calf kick with a right hand. Hines overextends on a punch, Harris drops him with a counter uppercut then gets on top and is able to pound things out.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – RJ Harris via TKO, punches, at 1:40 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Harris for his work. Mic time for Harris, he feels his debut couldn’t have gone better then talks us through the finish. Asked about the future he says his wife is about to give birth so he’s focused on that right now, he gets emotional talking about that to close.

Alden Coria is on a five fight winning streak including two UFC wins which have seen him start to build hype as a prospect, now he’s looking to continue that momentum the start moving from prospect to contender. Stewart Nicoll has gone 0-3 in the UFC and really needs to halt that skid if he wants any job security. Coria is the biggest favorite on the card at -1100 while +700 on Nicoll might tempt some degenerate gamblers.

Flyweight Bout: Alden Coria (13-2 1 NC, 126 lbs.) vs. Stewart Nicoll (8-3, 126 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Coria is three inches taller with an inch and a half of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get things going. Circling from Nicoll early, then a bit of a right hand from Coria. Coria looks to jab his way forward and keep Nicoll on the back foot. Uppercut from Coria bothers Nicoll. Nicoll starts stance switching while moving around. Bit of a right hand from Coria. Another uppercut from Coria, now he’s doing some stance switching as well. Bit of a left from Nicoll. Jab from Coria. Coria with a front kick. Nicoll tries a takedown, that stalls on the fence though. Eventually Nicoll is able to get things off the fence and hits a takedown, Coria looks to wrestle up and Nicoll grabs a front headlock. Coria is able to slip free and get his own front headlock, then he fires a knee and separates. Left hand from Coria. Double jab then a right hand from Nicoll. Spinning back kick from Nicoll mostly lands. Takedown from Nicoll, Coria wall walks into a clinch then hits a switch and they wind up resetting. Bit of a body kick from Coria. Takedown from Nicoll to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Coria but could go either way

ROUND TWO: Coria gets back to pressuring forward. Front kick from Coria, that went into the groin though so we’ve got a time out. Replay confirms the low blow but Nicoll only takes 33 seconds then we’re back to fighting. Calf kick from Coria. Nicoll lands a calf kick as well. A few jabs from Coria then he avoids the counters. Nicoll lands a calf kick. Coria with a few more jabs. Nicoll hits the body a couple of times. A few rights from Coria land then a high kick along the fence rattles Nicoll. Coria counters a takedown with a nice little hip toss to get on top. Anaconda choke from Coria, he bails on that though as Nicoll wrestles up along the fence. Elevated double leg from Nicoll, Coria scrambles up to his knees with Nicoll in the ride. Nicoll looks for a crucifix position but loses it and Coria scrambles to the ride himself now. They head upright against the fence, Nicoll fails on a kimura trap and Coria lands punches then jumps to the backpack. Suloev stretch attack from Coria but he can’t find it before the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Coria but another close one, 20-18 Coria overall

ROUND THREE: Coria pressures forward again and lands a right to the body. Some jabs from Coria then he fires a high kick. More jabs from Coria. Bit of a left hook from Coria. Left to the body from Coria then a left hook. Nicoll lands a right hand then hits a double leg. Coria scoots to the fence and tries a sweep, then uses that motion to get to his knees. Nicoll thinks about a front choke but Coria defends then stands and separates. Coria with some punches against the fence then he avoids the counters. Coria defends a takedown, then tris an anaconda choke and rolls to mount with it. Nicoll escapes the choke and wrestles around for a leg, Coria catches the crucifix position though. Eventually Nicoll gets free and gets to the back of Coria s they stand against the fence. Coria defends against the fence, then grabs a guillotine and sinks down with it then they both just wrestle back up. Another standing guillotine from Coria, this one is pretty tight and Nicoll sinks to his back to release the pressure and just ends the round on his back with Coria on top of him.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Coria, 30-27 Coria overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Alden Coria via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27 x2)

Solid performance from Coria but not exactly a statement making one. Mic time for Coria, he knew the fight would be tough and prepared very well for Nicoll. He mentions getting up a lot and does know he needs to keep working on his wrestling. Asked about the future he’d like a new contract and someone near the rankings.

Damien Anderson is undefeated and has a fairly decorated jiu-jitsu record, this whole fight came together during fight week though so he’ll be trying to overcome the short notice booking and showcase his modern jiu-jitsu abilities. Ezra Elliott is also undefeated and took the fight during fight week, which probably contributed to his missing weight. Despite the weight miss Elliott could still make a good first impression here. Close one here, -120 on Anderson to and even +100 for Elliott.

Featherweight Bout: Damien Anderson (5-0, 146 lbs.) vs. Ezra Elliott (7-0, 147.5 lbs.)*

ROUND ONE: Elliott is an inch taller with three inches of reach advantage, plus he missed weight of course. Both men fight southpaw. Circling from Anderson, both men probe with some long range weapons. Bit of a body kick from Anderson. Clubbing right from Anderson, Elliott tries a single leg against the fence but Anderson defends for a bit and lands punches. Elliott is able to briefly get a takedown then gets the back as Anderson wall walks. Mat return from Elliott but nothing comes of it as Anderson stands again with Elliott still on his back. Elliott is able to ride things down and gets the back now with one hook in. Anderson is able to break the hook and stand with Elliott still on his back. Elliott keeps working mat returns, he switches to a double leg and hits it against the fence. Anderson again stands but can’t get free as Elliott gets to his back standing. Kimura attack from Anderson, Elliott is able to block that then sinks to the mat as Anderson tries a guillotine. That choke might be close from Anderson but Elliott will see out the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Elliott

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Anderson moves forward more this round now. There’s some swelling around both of Elliott’s eyes, nothing major but it’s visible. Right hand from Anderson. Elliott reaches for a double leg, Anderson sprawls but Elliott switches to a body lock then gets the takedown. Elliott looks for the back, Anderson blocks the hooks though then stands with Elliott on his back. Back elbow from Anderson lands. Elliott tries a high crotch attack, switches to a double leg and hits it then looks for the back again. Anderson wrestles up with Elliott still holding his back. Another double leg from Elliott against the fence. Anderson scrambles back up, he grabs at a kimura attack and rolls with it then Elliott attacks a front headlock attack. D’arce attack from Elliott, then he drops some elbows to the back of the head and reattacks the choke. Elliott is able to get to mount with the d’arce, Anderson is still working to defend though. Elliott is really selling out for this d’arce attack but loses it and ends the round on top though.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Elliott, 20-18 Elliott overall

ROUND THREE: Elliott circles again. Anderson scoots forward looking for a punch. Elliott shoots a single leg, that stalls on the fence though. Granby roll from Anderson, Elliott rolls with him and gets on top. Elliott moves to half guard. Arm triangle attack from Elliott, he uses that to pass towards mount the attacks the arm triangle on the other side. Anderson is able to stand against the fence, Elliott looks for a high crotch again. Elliott slips to the back standing and resume working mat returns. Anderson keeps getting back up when taken down but there’s not much going on beyond that. Elliott gets towards the back on the mat, Anderson is able to turn into him and get on top in full guard. Only 40 seconds though, and Anderson lands a few punches. Elliott just closes guard and looks to ride out the round. Anderson lands a few more punches then stands over Elliott and punches back into half guard as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Anderson as Elliott did pretty much no damage, 29-28 Elliott overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Ezra Elliott via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)

No interview for Elliott.

Felipe Franco dropped his UFC debut when he stepped in up at heavyweight against Mario Pinto, but now he’s back at light heavyweight and looking to showcase his skills in his more natural weight class. Levi Rodrigues is undefeated but most recently fought to a No Contest on the Contender Series, the No Contest comes from him failing a drug test if you’re curious. Rodrigues is trying to remain undefeated and prove he’s a viable prospect in the division. The odds are with Rodrigues at -155 while +130 on Franco might be a solid little value bet.

Light Heavyweight Bout: Felipe Franco (10-2, 205 lbs.) vs. Levi Rodrigues (5-0 1 NC, 206 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Franco is an inch and a half taller with half an inch of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get things going. Franco shows stance switches while moving around. Rodrigues shows a few kicks. Bit of a jab from Franco, then a better one. Rodrigues falls short with a few punches. Solid calf kick from Rodrigues. Both men land punches in close. Stiff jab from Franco. Franco tries a takedown, that stalls on the fence though. Clinch takedown from Franco, then Rodrigues gets up into a clinch on the fence. Rodrigues is able to spin free and both men reset. Calf kick from Rodrigues. Hard right hand from Franco. Rodrigues lands another calf kick. Right hand from Rodrigues, that wobbles Franco but he fires back then hits a double leg against the fence into full guard. Franco postures up and lands an elbow. A few body to head punches from Franco, Rodrigues is just holding closed guard on bottom right now. Bit of an elbow from Franco then he passes to half guard. Now full mount for Franco and he lands some punches and elbows. More elbows from Franco but Rodrigues will hold on and see out the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Franco

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Jab from Rodrigues. Franco lands a one two. Rodrigues is hurt, Franco then tries a double leg against the fence. Things stall out a bit but Franco turns the corner and gets Rodrigues down then moves right into full mount. Franco gets to landing elbows pretty quickly, but he’s not rushed as he’s got 4 minutes to work. Punches from Franco now as he’s trying to open up choke attacks. More punches from Franco, he’s just teeing off now and the ref steps in to stop things.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Felipe Franco via TKO, punches, at 1:40 of Round 2

Mic time for Franco and the translator, he plays with the crowd a bit then advocates for a teammate to get into the UFC. To close he says he’s still getting better and this is just the beginning of his UFC story.

Seok Hyeon Ko is on a six fight winning streak including two wins in the UFC over Oban Elliott and Phil Rowe, now he’s looking for his third UFC win and to keep burning through his Contender Series contract as quickly as possible. Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani is on a five fight winning streak including a close split decision win over Phil Rowe in his UFC debut, he’s hoping for a more definitive outcome for his sophomore outing. Ko is your favorite at -175 to a +145 comeback on Lebosnoyani.

Welterweight Bout: Seokhyeon Ko (13-2, 169 lbs.) vs. Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani (10-2, 171 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Lebosnoyani has an inch of height and reach advantage. Southpaw for both men, and they touch gloves to get going. Calf kick from Ko. Lebosnoyani moves forward but walks into a left hand. Another calf kick from Ko. Pretty solid left hand from Ko then they tie up. Knee from Ko but Lebosnoyani gets a takedown into half guard. Ko wall walks pretty quickly into a clinch. A few short punches and elbows from Ko before he pulls out of the clinch. Lebosnoyani with some stance switching now while circling. Another left from Ko mostly lands. Right hand from Lebosnoyani. Both men block punches in close then Ko lands a few jabs. Glancing left hand from Ko. Lebosnoyani misses a head kick then fires a few punches that don’t quite land. Ko with another jab, it’s been a good weapon for him so far. Double leg from Ko, but Lebosnoyani grabs a guillotine on the way down and rolls into top position with it. Ko is able to scramble free of that and reset on the feet. Right hook from Ko. Lebosnoyani misses a few hooks. Uppercut from Ko then a right to the body. Another jab from Ko. Both men land lefts in close. Left from Ko then a couple of jabs. They trade lefts then jabs again. Both men swing in close as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Ko but could go either way

ROUND TWO: Both men come out and look to engage again. Bit of a left from Ko. Lebosnoyani lands a jab. Body kick from Ko then a left hand. Ko lands a jab. Bit of a pull counter left from Ko. Ko lands a few more jabs, he’s just chipping away at Lebosnoyani reliably so far. Wild right hand from Lebosnoyani mostly lands. Ko with a combination then a double leg but again Lebosnoyani rolls through with a guillotine into mount. This is a tight choke from Lebosnoyani, Ko rolls to top position but Lebosnoyani is still after the choke. Lebosnoyani finally bails on the choke and Ko is on top in full guard. Body to head punches from Ko, he’s getting right to striking at least. A few elbows from Ko land. Lebosnoyani scrambles up against the fence into the clinch. Ko with some knees then Lebosnoyani lands a right hand as they break. Both men land punches, they’re both fading now. They get close and trade some knees. Double leg from Lebosnoyani. Lebosnoyani moves to side control then tries for the back and gets it with one hook. Ko looks to squirm and scrambles up into a clinch on the fence. A few elbows from Lebosnoyani land then Ko pushes free. Ko lands a right hand. They stare away the final couple of seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Lebosnoyani but again pretty close, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They hug to start the final round. Left hand from Ko. Ko lands a jab. Lebosnoyani avoids a few punches in close. Ko with another jab. Right hand from Lebosnoyani. Ko gets back to jabbing. Lebosnoyani misses a punch then lands a right hand. Ko lands an elbow. Left hand from Ko then both men land punches. Stiff jab from Ko. Lebosnoyani walks into a left hand. Body kick from Lebosnoyani. Ko with another jab. Lebosnoyani misses some punches. Ko with a bit of a left hand. Right hook from Ko. Solid left hand from Ko and he’s got Lebosnoyani backing up now. Again Ko lands a left hand. Glancing right hook from Ko. They split a few jabs. Lebosnoyani misses a head kick. Ko ands a combination concluding with a right hook. Lebosnoyani tries a takedown, gets to the back and hits a mat return. Ko stands with Lebosnoyani on his back in the clinch. Ko turns chest to chest and Lebosnoyani fires punches before they break. Both men get close and trade again as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Ko, 29-28 Ko overall but this could go either way

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

I’m surprised there was no card for Ko but I can’t be upset at Lebosnoyani winning two rounds. No interview for Lebosnoyani.

Jose Miguel Delgado has gone 3-1 in the UFC with his lone loss coming to Nathaniel Wood last year, most recently he bested Andre Fili and now looks to build another winning streak. Austin Bashi has gone 1-1 in the UFC but he is coming off of a win and now looks for his first UFC winning streak. This one was close all week, it closed at -135 for Bashi to +115 on Delgado.

Featherweight Bout: Austin Bashi (14-1, 145 lbs.) vs. Jose Delgado (11-2, 146 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Delgado is five inches taller with three inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Delgado. Bashi looks to stay at range, then he lands a left hook which briefly drops Delgado. Delgado is up, Bashi moves into a clinch and they hit the fence. Delgado is able to pull free and lands a right hand. Bashi avoids a head kick. Inside leg kick from Delgado, Bashi then gets to the back in a clinch. Delgado gets chest to chest then pulls free. Both men miss lead hand punches. Body kick from Delgado but Bashi lands a left hook. Bashi pushes into another clinch on the back. Bashi with a mat return, but Delgado bounces up then free. Thus far Bashi’s done a good job of being all the way out or all the way in, not getting caught in Delgado’s range. Delgado lands a right hook. Both men show stance switches now. Delgado lands a left to the body then a body kick. Short counter right from Delgado. Hard left from Delgado drops Bashi, Bashi tries to wrestle up but Delgado lands punches. Bashi is really hurt as he stands, Delgado with a head kick then a few punches and a knee. Delgado sprawls away from a single leg, Bashi is just holding on but Delgado spins to the ride and then drops elbows. Delgado to the back and lands punches then tries a further nelson briefly but Bashi will see out the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Delgado

ROUND TWO: Delgado gets back to moving forward. Bashi tries a single leg, Delgado defends then spins him into the fence and lands uppercuts before slipping free. Bashi swings and misses a few hooks. Delgado with a combination of punches. Both men swing in close but nothing lands cleanly. Delgado blocks a high kick. They trade rights then Delgado lands a body kick. Bashi is starting to lunge a bit too much now and Delgado is catching with on the way in with right hooks. Delgado avoids a few high kicks then defends a takedown but Bashi sticks with the contact and is able to move to the ride. Delgado stands into a clinch with Bashi on his back, then he lands a right hand as they break. Delgado wit a jab then a knee to the body. Bit of a left from Delgado. Body kick then left hand from Delgado, Bashi tries a takedown but that settles into a clinch on the fence. Bashi tries to ride things down and finishes a double leg just before the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Delgado but could go either way, 20-18 Delgado overall

ROUND THREE: Inside leg kick from Bashi to start, then he tries a takedown but has to settle for a clinch in space. Delgado hits a takedown, then both men wrestle up. Right hook from Delgado in close. Solid left hand from Delgado but Bashi fires back. Delgado with a front kick, Bashi tries to tie up but Delgado avoids that then lands a left hand. Left from Delgado, Bashi then lands a jab. Both men miss in close. Bashi avoids a takedown, then tries his own double leg but that stalls on the fence. Knee from Delgado then an elbow as he pushes free. Bashi’s right eye is kind of a mess at this point. Bit of a left from Delgado. Delgado shows orthodox now and lands a few jabs. Glancing one two from Delgado. Again Delgado with a bit of a left hand and Bashi’s counters fall short. Delgado lands a right hook. Single leg from Delgado, Bashi tries a guillotine though and rolls to mount with it. Bashi bails on the choke, Delgado shrimps to half guard but man that takedown was a poor decision on his part. A few strikes land for Bashi, Delgado then attacks a kneebar and drops elbow to the thigh as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Delgado but he made that scoring harder than it needed to be, 30-27 Delgado overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Jose Miguel Delgado via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)

No interview for Delgado.

Tommy McMillen is undefeated including a successful UFC debut, he’s looking to remain perfect and start building hype around his exciting fight style. Alberto Montes is on a four fight winning streak including his UFC debut a few months back, he’s trying to extend that streak here and establish himself as a prospect of note. The odds are with McMillen at -230 to +190 for Montes.

Featherweight Bout: Tommy McMillen (10-0, 145 lbs.) vs. Alberto Montes (11-1, 146 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: McMillen is four inches taller with five inches of reach advantage. McMillen presses forward early. Bit of an uppercut from McMillen. Montes with a counter right hand. Another right from Montes. McMillen lands a spinning back kick. Bit of a head kick from Montes but he slips throwing it and McMillen gets on top in full guard. McMillen stands free and lands a shady knee as Montes gets up. One two from Montes. McMillen keeps dropping his hands when he kicks, there’s counters there if Montes gets hip to it. Right hand from Montes, then an elbow. McMillen lands a one two. Left to the body then a right hand from McMillen. A stiff jab from Montes off balances McMillen for a second but he bounces back up. Both men miss some wild punches in close. Jabs go back and forth then Montes lands a right hand. McMillen with a few punches then a high kick. Body shots from McMillen as he’s got Montes on the fence. Body kick from Montes. Glancing high kick from Montes but McMillen drops him with a right hand. Montes gets up and McMillen hits the body a few times. Knee from McMillen, he’s got Montes hurt on the fence now. Montes throws back at him but he’s on the wrong end of things thus far. Body shots from McMillen but Montes stumbles him with a left hook. Both men get back to swinging punches as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 McMillen

ROUND TWO: Montes comes out with a body kick. McMillen avoids a right hand. Bit of a right from Montes. McMillen just keeps pressuring and swinging punches recklessly. They trade rights then McMillen hits the body a few times against the fence. More punches go back and forth now. Knee from Montes got to the chin of McMillen. Right hand from McMillen. Both men land in close, the volume of McMillen is mostly carrying things so far. Montes lands a jab. A couple more body shots from McMillen. Montes with a partially successful head kick. More punches from McMillen land, then Montes fires back with uppercuts in close. They trade in close again. Bit of a one two from McMillen. Montes with a left to the body. McMillen misses a combination. Glancing right hand from McMillen. Bit of a right from Montes but he’s still getting out worked overall. They split jabs. Both men hit the body then Montes lands a right. Spinning back kick from McMillen. Both men land rights then McMillen hits the body again. Again McMillen digs the body. Montes avoids a few punches but gets stuck on the fence and McMillen flurries again as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 McMillen, 20-18 McMillen overall

ROUND THREE: McMillen gets back to pressuring forward with punches. Flurry from McMillen, he grabs a front headlock and snaps Montes down but doesn’t want to stay on the mat. McMillen stands over Montes and lands punches then makes Montes stand back up. Both men with jabs. More combinations from McMillen, if nothing else the man is in great shape because he isn’t really slowing down. Body kick from McMillen. Montes avoids a right hand but his offense has all but evaporated. McMillen lands a right hand then body blows. Elbow from McMillen, Montes just wont go down and swings back in the pocket. Left to the body from McMillen. Again McMillen lands a right hand then body blows. Montes with a jab but he just can’t get offense going. McMillen with another right hand. More rights from McMillen, he’s got Montes hurt and staggering around, he’s looking to finish and lands body blows then a flurry of punches to get the standing TKO.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Tommy McMillen via TKO, punches and elbows, at 3:29 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Mr. McMillen for his work. Mic time for McMillen, he calls himself a real American gangster and notes all the foreign people he’s knocked out and wants to fight a Mexican in Arizona since he’s a native of that state. He talks us through the finish then puts over his team.

Tabatha Ricci has been trading wins and losses recently, last time out she lost to Virna Jandiroba and now she’s trying to avoid her first losing streak. Fatima Kline has never lost at strawweight and is on a three fight winning streak, she’s looking to move into the top 10 with a win here as she might be emerging as a bright spot for women’s MMA. Kline is the favorite at -490 to Ricci’s +380.

Strawweight Bout: #11 Fatima Kline (9-1, 115.5 lbs.) vs. #8 Tabatha Ricci (12-4, 116 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Kline is five inches taller with a significant six inches of reach advantage. Ricci comes out aggressively and both women start splitting jabs. Bit of a one two from Kline. Kline lands a body kick. Combination from Kline, her hands are quick. Ricci pushes close but can’t hold the clinch. Bit of a right hand from Kline. Some stance switching from Kline now and she lands a right hand. Again a right hand from Kline then she throws a head kick which winds up blocked. Ricci pushes for a clinch, Kline lands a knee to the body then gets free. Bit of a one two from Kline. Ricci ties up, tries a throw but Kline counters and winds up on top. Kline to the ride position and lands a few punches. Ricci stands, Kline hits a mat return and resumes working from the ride. Wall walk from Ricci into a clinch, Kline lands an elbow as they separate. Left hand from Kline. Kline with a double leg into side control against the fence. Ricci to her knees, Kline moves to the back with one hook in. Kline shifts to the ride, then lands a knee as Ricci wall walks free. Both women land punches in the pocket as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Kline

ROUND TWO: Kline comes out jabbing then lands a body kick. Ricci falls short with a right hand and eats a left hook. Some more jabs from Kline then a right hand. Ricci lands a right hand but eats a couple of counters. Kline misses a head kick, Ricci tries a takedown and they wrestle around until Kline lands a knee as they separate. Leg kick from Kline then she avoids a takedown and gets back to the ride position. Kline with some punches then a knee as Ricci wall walks then resets. One two from Kline. Ricci tries another takedown but Kline defends again. Kline lands a front kick. They trade rights in close then Kline lands another front kick. They tie up, Kline pushes things to the fence then they trade before separating. Bit of a high kick from Ricci. Short right from Kline in close. Both women miss high kicks. Another clinch and Kline slips to the back against the fence. A few short blows from Kline then Ricci gets chest to chest. Bit of a trip from Kline and she gets back to the ride. Kline scoots all the way around to the back but still only one hook. Choke attack from Kline, short time though and Ricci sees out the round but that might have ended things if there were 10 more seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Kline, 20-18 Kline overall

ROUND THREE: Kline slips a right hand then lands a punch. Solid right hand from Kline. Ricci avoids a high kick. Kline with a left to the body then a right hand. Calf kick from Kline. Right uppercut from Kline. Ricci is just out of ideas at this point. Kline with a front kick then she gets to the back standing and hits a mat return, then another high amplitude one that bordered on a German suplex. Ricci scoots to the fence and Kline keeps the ride. Ricci is able to wall walk and get free. Kline lands a body kick. A couple of punches land for Kline. Ricci tries to clinch but just eats a knee. One two from Kline. Both women land lefts in close. Right hand from Kline. Both women land rights. Inside leg kick from Kline. Ricci is limping on her right leg now. Calf kick from Kline. Kline with a knee in close. Ricci avoids a punch and hits a takedown into full guard. Kline works her guard up high then tries to invert for a leg but Ricci smothers that, then Kline wrestles up as Ricci tries a takedown. Punches from Kline as she gets on top and drops elbows from half guard while the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Kline, 30-27 Kline overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Fatima Kline via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Heck of a performance for Kline. Kline gets an interview, she thanks God for helping her overcome anxiety during this camp. She talks us through some highlights and says she’ll look even better next time. Asked about the future she will happily fight anyone in the top five.

Chase Hooper has been up and down while going 8-5 in the UFC, he’s on a two fight losing streak though and missed weight for this fight. With all that going against him Hooper really needs a win to try and get things back on track. Mitch Ramirez has gone 0-2 in the UFC and has been finished in both of those fights, he really needs to find that all important first UFC win here. Despite the weight miss the odds still like Hooper at -355 to a +285 comeback on Ramirez.

Lightweight Bout: Chase Hooper (16-5-1, 157.5 lbs.)* vs. Mitch Ramirez (8-3, 155.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Hooper has three and a half inches of height and reach advantage, he’s also 7 years younger and missed weight. Southpaw for Hooper. Left hand from Hooper. Ramirez keeps working to navigate the distance. Single leg from Hooper, Ramirez rolls through but Hooper gets to the back and locks up a body triangle. Hooper could attack an arm triangle transition here, he starts looking towards full mount to threaten both moving to mount and attack the neck. One armed rear naked choke from Hooper, he adjusts his grip a bit and finally connects his hands to force the tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Chase Hooper via Submission, rear naked choke, at 2:15 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Hooper for his work. Mic time for Hooper, he feels good and wasn’t going to lose three in a row. He talks us through the finish, then talks about his wife being about to give birth to their second child. To close he says you shouldn’t goon. How is this a real sport?

Jared Cannonier has been with the UFC for a while now but he’s just 1-3 in his last four fights, granted those losses are to Nassourdine Imavov, Caio Borralho, and Michael Page but it’s still a rough patch. Cannonier is coming off of the Page loss and really needs to avoid another losing streak here. Christian Leroy Duncan has gone 7-2 in the UFC and is on a four fight winning streak, that’s led to this step up in class for him as a win over Cannonier would be the biggest of his career. The odds like Duncan at -390 while that +310 payout on Cannonier might be a tempting little number.

Middleweight Bout: #10 Jared Cannonier (18-9, 185 lbs.) vs. #12 Christian Leroy Duncan (14-2, 185.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Duncan is three inches taller, has an inch and a half of reach advantage, and is 12 years younger. Southpaw for Duncan to start but he’ll switch. Duncan shows some kicks early. Calf kick from Duncan, he keeps showing side kicks and circling. Oblique kick from Duncan, one strays low but Cannonier doesn’t need much recovery time. Cannonier tries a single leg, Duncan with a jumping knee before they hit the fence. A few knees go back and forth as they jockey for position. Elbow from Duncan then another knee. Cannonier tries a foot sweep but can’t finish it and then slips free. Duncan pushes forward, eats a left hook but then lands a kick. Elbow from Cannonier in close. Cannonier avoids a spinning back elbow then gets another clinch to the fence. Double leg from Duncan, he then gets the back standing as Cannonier gets upright. Elbow from Duncan then a few punches. Flurry from Duncan, Cannonier is hurt and Duncan chases him down with a flying knee. More knees and elbows in close from Duncan but he slips and Cannonier gets to reset. Cannonier moves to the back standing and rides Duncan down to his knees. The round will end with Duncan pulling Cannonier around and ending up on top.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Duncan

ROUND TWO: More pressure from Duncan, he off balances Cannonier with a kick then very nearly lands an illegal knee before Cannonier gets the clinch and pushes things to the fence. Cannonier is trying a level change, Duncan is defending as we get a replay of that illegal kick he threw and he kind of got away with that one. Elbow from Cannonier as they break. Duncan resumes pressuring forward and lands an elbow in close but Cannonier fires back with a right hand. Solid left hand from Duncan, he extends the combination but Cannonier throws back and lands a right hand. Both men land elbows in close. Left hand from Cannonier but Duncan stuns him with a back elbow. Another clinch and things hit the fence. Elbow from Cannonier in close but Duncan returns it before slipping free. Knee from Duncan in close then a shoulder strike as they clinch. Inside trip from Cannonier and he gets on top in half guard. Duncan takes a few short punches then wall walks and slips behind Cannonier. From the ride now Duncan with some punches. Cannonier is grabbing at the fence to try and stand but the ref stops him and the round ends with Duncan still landing some punches.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Duncan but much closer, 20-18 Duncan overall

ROUND THREE: Duncan comes out side kicking to start the round. A few more long range kicks from Duncan then a couple of left hands. Some jabs from Duncan. They clinch up and Cannonier pushes things to the fence then slips to the back. Duncan spins free pretty quickly then resets. Some punches are traded then they clinch again. Short elbow from Duncan then Cannonier pushes things to the fence. Cannonier slips to the back then sort of hits a cheese donkey but can’t control things and Duncan stands with Cannonier still on his back. Duncan spins free eventually and lands a calf kick. Cannonier avoids a wheel kick. Knees from Duncan then an elbow, he gets close and fires more elbows but Cannonier ties up to slow him down. They break as Cannonier misses an elbow. Some missed punches on both sides then Duncan misses a spinning back fist as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Duncan but this one legitimately could go either way, 30-27 Duncan overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Christian Leroy Duncan via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27 x2)

Mic time for Duncan after the win, he puts over Cannonier first then feels beating him should put him near the top of the division. He talks through a few highlights and says he’s still getting better between fights. Asked about the future he wants to stay active and fight in a few months but doesn’t have a name.

Dricus du Plessis has gone 9-1 in the UFC and is a former middleweight champion, he is coming off of losing that title almost a year ago though. Du Plessis is back in action and looking to get a crack at regaining the title by taking out a decorated fighter and former champion here. Kamaru Usman is a former welterweight champion and probably only behind the great Georges St-Pierre in all time fighters at that weight class, he only recently broke a three fight losing streak a little over a year ago though. Usman is trying his hand at middleweight again, he previously lost in the class to Khamzat Chimaev, but taking out a former champion when he already holds a prior victory over the current champion could set him up to try and attain another title nearing the age of 40. Du Plessis is the favorite here at -210 to +175 on Usman.

Middleweight Bout: #2 Dricus du Plessis (23-3, 185.5 lbs.) vs. Kamaru Usman (21-4, 186 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Du Plessis is an inch taller but the reach is identical, Usman is also 7 years older. Both men start orthodox but du Plessis will switch if he feels like it. Some jabs from du Plessis, just range finding so far. Calf kick from du Plessis then a jab. Usman with a body jab. Bit of a right hand from du Plessis. Du Plessis with a bit of a left high kick. Right hand from du Plessis. Neither man has a great feel for the range or timing yet. Glancing right hand from du Plessis. Another couple of rights from du Plessis land and wobble Usman just a bit. Another right from du Plessis lands. Hard calf kick from du Plessis then a jab. One two from du Plessis, Usman just can’t get his movement figured out. Another jab from du Plessis. Usman lands a calf kick then swings a few punches that don’t quite land. Du Plessis fights off a single leg then both men land punches. Jab from Usman and he avoids a counter uppercut. Usman ties up and they both land body blows then Usman hits du Plessis low. Only a short time out as du Plessis can continue. Usman misses a right hand. Bit of a left high kick from du Plessis and he avoids the counters. Another right hand from du Plessis lands. They trade body kicks to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 du Plessis

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Jab from du Plessis then a left high kick partially lands. Intercepting knee from du Plessis wobbles Usman, he looks to follow up and lands a right hand. Both men are switching stances now as they flurry in close. Usman just is struggling to get offense going. Right hand from du Plessis then another high kick partially lands. Usman ducks into a knee, tries a takedown but du Plessis defends and they wind up clinched on the fence. Du Plessis gets free without much issue. A couple right hooks from du Plessis partially land. Long range left from du Plessis lands. Another stepping knee from du Plessis, he almost can’t miss now. Du Plessis with a flurry of punches then a hard right hand. A right hand hurts Usman, but he complains of an eye poke so we get a time out. Replay shows it was a punch so we’re back to fighting very quickly. Du Plessis gets back on pressure and both men land punches. Usman is backing up and du Plessis off balances him with a punch but Usman gets up quickly. Du Plessis pushes into a clinch and then they break with punches. Usman’s left eye is a bit of a mess. More punches from du Plessis land then he avoids a takedown attempt. Jab and knee from du Plessis land. Left high kick lands for du Plessis. They trade in the pocket briefly, then du Plessis lands a right hand. Chopping right hand from du Plessis, then they trade as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 du Plessis, borderline 10-8 really, 20-18 du Plessis overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves again. Du Plessis lands a body kick. Glancing left hand from du Plessis. Usman misses a low kick. Combination from du Plessis. Du Plessis with a few jabs while circling. Body jab from Usman. Another knee from du Plessis. Right hand from du Plessis lands. Usman lands a right to the body. Left head kick from du Plessis lands. A couple body kicks land for du Plessis. Usman falls short with a right hand, then fakes a takedown and misses a left hook. Right hand from du Plessis. Du Plessis lands another body kick then a one two. Usman reaches for a single leg but du Plessis avoids it. Knee from du Plessis. One two from du Plessis. Again du Plessis lands the one two. Usman tries a double leg, but du Plessis immediately wrestles up and separates. Inside leg kick then a high knee from du Plessis. Bit of a combination from du Plessis as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 du Plessis, 30-27 du Plessis overall

ROUND FOUR: They touch gloves again. Du Plessis avoids a body jab then lands a body kick. A few front kicks go back and forth, neither man really lands though. Du Plessis avoids a single leg then lands a glancing head kick. They split jabs. Bit of a body kick from du Plessis. Du Plessis lands a left hand then a head kick staggers Usman for a second. Another left high kick from du Plessis partially lands. counter one two from du Plessis. Another high kick from du Plessis, this one is mostly blocked. Du Plessis lands a right hand, then another one. Usman walks onto a knee and can’t hit a takedown. Chopping right from du Plessis. Usman avoids a few punches and ties up in space but du Plessis spins free quickly. Another one two from du Plessis. They split jabs. Usman eats a body kick but does avoid the follow up punches. Hard one two from du Plessis. Solid right hand from Usman but du Plessis just eats it. Combination from du Plessis then a high kick. An exchange of lefts closes the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 du Plessis, 40-36 du Plessis overall

ROUND FIVE: They touch gloves for the final round. Du Plessis works his way forward early and deflects a few punches. Usman reaches for a single leg but du Plessis avoids it. Bit of a high kick from du Plessis then a body kick. Left hand from du Plessis. Bit of a one two from du Plessis. Stiff jab from du Plessis. Du Plessis lands a body kick then a one two. Body jab from Usman. A kick from du Plessis might have gone low, we get a time out and the replay checks in. Replay shows the foot hit the groin after hitting the back thigh, but still a foul. Usman doesn’t take too long then we’re back fighting. Left high kick from du Plessis then a left hand. Another high kick from du Plessis wobbles Usman. One two from du Plessis, another high kick then a right hand. Elbow from du Plessis. Usman swings back then fires a high kick that misses. Knee from du Plessis then he shoots, Usman sprawls though and knees the body in the clinch before du Plessis gets free. Left hand from du Plessis. Both men land some long range kicks. Bit of a right hand from Usman. Usman lands a right hand. Du Plessis avoids a high kick. Bit of a left from du Plessis. Usman blocks a high kick. Both men swing in close, Usman then unloads punches but du Plessis wobbles him with a right hook just as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 du Plessis, 50-45 du Plessis overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Dricus du Plessis via unanimous decision (50-45, 49-46 x2)

No problems with Usman maybe getting the third there. Mic time for du Plessis, he puts over Usman as a warrior who wrestles hard but still gives great shows in both wins and losses. This is what the fans deserve, not BS hold fests, and he thanks Usman for the years given to the sport. He talks through some highlights and says Usman learned the hardest lesson about left head kicks but he was going to make sure it stuck. He says he feels great and finally has some composure instead of getting wild when he hurts someone, then puts over Usman’s toughness again. Asked about the future he first puts over God then says he should fight for the belt after a performance like that. Given his two other wins over Sean Strickland it seems likely.

Usman gets some mic time as well, he doesn’t agree with 50-45 scores but knew du Plessis would be tough. He admits getting punched in the eye hurt his ability but feels he also had an off night. Asked about the future he says he’s still got it but needs to tweak a few things, he just hates letting his team down. Cormier presses him about weight class if nothing else and Usman says he’ll go wherever the opportunity is.

Well on that note UFC Fight Night: du Plessis vs. Usman comes to a close. We’ll be unpacking all the fallout from this event on the 411 Ground and Pound Podcast, plus look ahead to next week. Next week the UFC is back in Abu Dhabi so mind the early start time of 9am EST for the prelims. I’ll have you covered from start to finish per usual and I hope you’ll be back. Thank you very much for reading, live or after the fact, as I never take your time for granted. Until next time stay safe out there and keep checking 411mania for all of your pop culture needs.

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