Usman vs du Plessis set for high-stakes UFC showdown

Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman will return to the Octagon on July 18 in a high-profile bout against former middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis, with both fighters seeking to revive their championship ambitions.

The contest, scheduled to headline UFC Fight Night 281 in Oklahoma City, pits two former title holders against each other in what is expected to be one of the biggest mixed martial arts events of the summer.

Usman, widely regarded as one of the most successful welterweights in UFC history, is looking to bounce back after a difficult spell in his career.

Nicknamed "The Nigerian Nightmare," he built a reputation as one of the promotion's most dominant champions, winning 19 consecutive professional fights, including 15 straight in the UFC, and defending the welterweight title five times.

A victory over du Plessis would strengthen the Nigerian-born fighter's bid to compete for championship honours again, this time in a higher weight division.

Across the cage, South Africa's du Plessis will also have plenty at stake.

The former middleweight champion is aiming to re-establish himself among the division's elite after surrendering his title. Victory over a former pound-for-pound standout would bolster his credentials as he seeks another shot at middleweight gold.

The matchup brings together two contrasting styles. Usman has built his career around elite wrestling, grappling control and tactical fight management, using his ability to dictate the pace and neutralise opponents.

Du Plessis, by contrast, is known for relentless forward pressure, aggressive striking combinations and a high-tempo approach that forces opponents into uncomfortable exchanges.

The stylistic clash is expected to test both fighters, with Usman attempting to impose his wrestling against one of the division's most aggressive strikers.

Beyond the immediate result, the outcome could reshape the title picture for both men.

For Usman, a win would mark a successful return against a top-level opponent and provide momentum for another championship pursuit. For du Plessis, victory would reinforce his claim to another opportunity at the middleweight title.

With two former champions fighting to return to title contention, the bout is expected to draw significant attention from MMA fans as both athletes look to reignite their careers on one of the sport's biggest stages.

Online betting platform and MelBet has launched a promotional campaign tied to the upcoming  Fight Night main event. 

It is a must-watch fight, and MelBet offers a way to enjoy it even more.

From July 10, users can place a single bet of at least $5 on Usman vs du Plessis. If the bet loses, a promo code for a free bet will be credited within 24 hours.

The offer, allows eligible users who place a first single bet of at least $5 on the fight to receive a free bet, worth up to $50, if their prediction is unsuccessful.

According to the company, the free bet will be issued as a promo code within 24 hours of a losing qualifying wager.

The promotion is part of a broader trend of betting operators using major sporting events, including high-profile UFC contests, to attract and retain customers through cashback and free-bet incentives.