Francis Ngannou was seen alongside Kamaru Usman ahead of Usman`s anticipated return to the octagon.
Usman is set to compete for the first time in nearly two years, headlining UFC Atlanta this Saturday against Joaquin Buckley at the State Farm Arena. Following successful weigh-ins on Friday, both fighters participated in ceremonial weigh-ins later that day. Notably, Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, accompanied Usman during his walkout for the faceoff, showing support for his fellow fighter.
The subsequent faceoff between Usman and Buckley was intense and prolonged, with neither fighter showing any inclination to break eye contact first.
Usman is aiming to snap a three-fight losing streak, competing for the first time since October 2023. His previous fight was a short-notice bout against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294, which he lost by decision. Prior to that, he suffered two consecutive title fights to Leon Edwards. A loss against Buckley would extend his losing streak to four, a scenario “The Nigerian Nightmare” is keen to avoid.
Conversely, Buckley is riding a significant wave of momentum since moving to the welterweight division, boasting an impressive 4-0 record in 2024. His recent success includes a dominant TKO victory over Colby Covington in the main event of UFC Atlantic City in March 2024, solidifying his status as a surging contender.
*(Note: While the faceoff video link mentioned in the original text is omitted as requested, the description of the intense staredown is included.)*
