UFC Fight Night 281: Dricus Du Plessis vs. Kamaru Usman: Preview and Prediction

This weekend, former UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis faces veteran Kamaru Usman in UFC Fight Night 281. The event takes place inside the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where passionate fans expect another memorable night.

With an action-packed lineup featuring several exciting matchups, the card promises nonstop entertainment before the headline clash. Let’s break down both competitors’ fighting styles to determine who holds the better chance of securing victory this weekend.

Dricus Du Plessis

Dricus Du Plessis suffered a devastating defeat against Khamzat Chimaev in his previous outing, losing the UFC middleweight championship. Since that setback, Du Plessis has remained determined to rebuild momentum, viewing this matchup as the perfect opportunity to revive title aspirations

Known for his unpredictable style, relentless pressure, and willingness to absorb punishment, Du Plessis thrives during chaotic exchanges. Facing Usman presents an intriguing challenge because the former champion spent most of his legendary career competing in the welterweight division.

Kamaru Usman

Kamaru Usman is among the most accomplished fighters in modern UFC history, though many believe he is approaching the final chapter now. His previous victory over Joaquin Buckley ended a difficult three-fight losing streak, restoring confidence.

Moving up to the middleweight division gives Usman a fresh challenge, allowing him to test himself against another elite former champion. A convincing victory over Du Plessis could strengthen Usman’s title ambitions and potentially earn him a future middleweight championship opportunity in UFC.

Tale of the Tape: Dricus Du Plessis vs. Kamaru Usman

Categories	Dricus Du Plessis	Kamaru Usman
Age	32	39
Height	6’0″	6’0″
Reach	76″	76″
Record	23-3	21-4
Fighting Out Of	Pretoria, South Africa	Auchi, Nigeria

Fight Analysis and Prediction

Both fighters possess championship experience and elite skill sets, making this main event one of the year’s most compelling stylistic matchups overall. Kamaru Usman remains an exceptionally well-rounded competitor, carrying dangerous striking, proven knockout power, elite wrestling, and championship composure.

However, his recent performances have shown declining explosiveness, slower reactions, and reduced offensive output. Dricus du Plessis enters with superior size, pressure, excellent durability, and a relentless pace that overwhelms opponents across every round. Although Usman will enjoy moments of success using experience and grappling, du Plessis should dictate tempo with superior activity and aggression throughout.

Final Prediction: Dricus du Plessis defeats Kamaru Usman via unanimous decision.