Friendship Forged in Fire: Ngannou Supports Usman’s Comeback Against Buckley

The bromance between former UFC champions is alive and well as Francis Ngannou showed up to support Kamaru Usman ahead of his long-awaited return to the octagon. After nearly two years away from competition, “The Nigerian Nightmare” is set to face the dangerous Joaquin Buckley in what promises to be a pivotal matchup for the former welterweight king.

I’ve seen plenty of fighter friendships over my years covering MMA, but few run as deep as the bond between these two African-born champions.

The Return of the Nigerian Nightmare

Usman hasn’t stepped into the cage since his devastating knockout loss to Leon Edwards at UFC 286 in March 2022. That fight marked his second straight defeat to Edwards, effectively ending his dominant reign as welterweight champion after five successful title defenses.

Now, at 37 years old, many questions surround Usman’s comeback:

• Can he recapture the form that made him one of the most dominant champions in UFC history?
• Does he still have the hunger after accomplishing so much in the sport?
• Will the time off rejuvenate or rust his elite skills?

Insert image of Kamaru Usman training for his comeback here

Ngannou: From UFC Champion to Usman’s Corner

While Francis Ngannou has moved on from the UFC to pursue boxing and a PFL career, his loyalty to friends like Usman remains unwavering. The two have trained together at various points throughout their careers and share the unique experience of representing Africa at the highest levels of combat sports.

“Having someone like Francis in your corner isn’t just about moral support,” a source close to Usman’s camp told me. “It’s about having someone who understands the pressure of championship fights and can keep you grounded during fight week.”

Brotherhood Beyond Borders

The connection between Ngannou and Usman represents something bigger than MMA. Both men rose from humble beginnings in Africa to become global combat sports stars. Their shared journey from the African continent to world championships has created an unbreakable bond that transcends competition.

You can see it in their interactions – the genuine respect and admiration they have for each other’s struggles and triumphs.

Joaquin Buckley: The Dangerous Test

Make no mistake – this isn’t a softball matchup for Usman’s return. Joaquin Buckley has emerged as one of the most exciting fighters in the welterweight division. Known for his viral knockout of Impa Kasanganay (that spinning back kick still gives me chills), Buckley brings explosive power and improving technical skills to this matchup.

Buckley enters this fight on a three-fight win streak, most recently dispatching Vicente Luque via TKO. A win over a former champion like Usman would catapult him into title contention.

What’s at Stake for Both Fighters

For Usman, this fight represents more than just a comeback – it’s potentially his last chance to prove he belongs among the elite. At 37, another loss could signal the beginning of the end for his championship aspirations.

Buckley, meanwhile, has everything to gain. Defeating a legend like Usman would be the biggest win of his career and immediately insert him into the title conversation in a stacked welterweight division.

The Path Forward

Win or lose, having Ngannou in his corner shows that Usman isn’t walking this comeback road alone. There’s something powerful about seeing former champions support each other, especially when one is attempting to climb the mountain again while the other has chosen a different path.

I’ve covered this sport long enough to know that comebacks are never guaranteed. For every Georges St-Pierre triumphant return, there are dozens of former champions who couldn’t recapture their glory days.

But if anyone has the work ethic and championship mindset to defy the odds, it’s Kamaru Usman. And having Francis Ngannou standing beside him might just provide that extra push he needs.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Does Usman have one more championship run in him? Can Buckley play spoiler to the former champ’s comeback plans? Drop a comment below with your predictions for this exciting welterweight clash!

Stay tuned for more coverage as we approach fight night, including exclusive interviews and analysis you won’t find anywhere else.