Kamaru Usman earned his first win since November 2021 with a unanimous decision over rising welterweight contender Joaquin Buckley. Usman dominated the fight with his wrestling, making it nearly impossible for Buckley,

Della Maddalena's bout to win the title came against Belal Muhammad in one of the best fights of the year at UFC 315 in May. Long before Usman's title reign ended at the hands of Leon Edwards three years ago, Usman vs. Muhammad appeared to be a collision that was destined to happen.