UFC Fight Night 281 Preview: Du Plessis vs. Usman Headlines Oklahoma City as Dione Barbosa Looks to Shine

The UFC returns to Oklahoma City on Saturday, July 18, for UFC Fight Night 281: Dricus Du Plessis vs. Kamaru Usman, a card featuring former world champions, rising contenders, and several athletes looking to make a statement inside the Octagon. Held at the Paycom Center, the event marks the UFC’s return to Oklahoma City after nearly a decade and carries major implications across multiple divisions.

Du Plessis vs. Usman: A Main Event With Title Implications
Former UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus Du Plessis meets former longtime UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman in a fascinating five-round main event. While both men have already reached the pinnacle of the sport, this fight is about proving they still belong in the championship conversation.

Du Plessis enters the bout determined to begin his climb back toward UFC gold after surrendering the middleweight title earlier this year. Known for his relentless pace, unconventional striking, and ability to win chaotic exchanges, “Stillknocks” has built a reputation as one of the division’s toughest competitors.

Across from him stands one of the greatest welterweights in MMA history. Usman has already shown he can compete with elite middleweights, and another marquee victory would strengthen his case for one final championship run. His disciplined wrestling, championship experience, and tactical approach make him a dangerous challenge for anyone at 185 pounds.

Veteran Talent Throughout the Main Card
The co-main event features veteran contender Jared Cannonier taking on the dangerous Christian Leroy Duncan in a matchup that could produce fireworks.

Elsewhere on the card, fan favorite Chase Hooper continues his development against Mitch Ramirez, while strawweights Tabatha Ricci and Fatima Kline square off in an important divisional contest. Several undefeated prospects also make appearances, highlighting the UFC’s continued investment in developing the next generation of talent.

Former Cris Cyborg Training Partner Dione Barbosa Returns
For fans of CrisCyborg.com, one of the most anticipated fights on the preliminary card belongs to Dione Barbosa.

Barbosa is more than another UFC flyweight. She is a former training partner of 18-time MMA World Champion Cris Cyborg, having spent valuable time sharpening her skills alongside one of the most dominant champions women’s MMA has ever seen. Training in an environment that demanded discipline, intensity, and constant improvement helped Barbosa develop the aggressive grappling style and toughness she now brings into the Octagon.

Originally scheduled to face Veronica Hardy, Barbosa will now take on Anna Melisano, who accepted the fight on short notice after Hardy withdrew due to injury. Short-notice opponent changes can completely alter a game plan, but Barbosa’s well-rounded skill set should allow her to make the necessary adjustments.

Nicknamed “The Witch,” Barbosa has steadily gained experience during her UFC run and enters Oklahoma City looking to build momentum after an impressive victory over Melissa Gatto. A dominant performance on Saturday could move her one step closer to breaking into the crowded flyweight rankings.

Those who have watched Barbosa train alongside Cris Cyborg understand the level of preparation she brings into every fight. The work ethic, physical conditioning, and championship mindset required to survive in that training room have helped shape Barbosa into one of Brazil’s most promising flyweight competitors.

For longtime supporters of Cyborg, Barbosa’s appearance adds another reason to tune in this weekend.

Final Thoughts
While the spotlight belongs to Du Plessis and Usman in the night’s headline attraction, UFC Fight Night 281 offers compelling matchups from top to bottom. The main event could reshape the middleweight title picture, rising prospects have opportunities to announce themselves on the sport’s biggest stage, and Dione Barbosa has a chance to continue her ascent while representing the championship-caliber training environment she once shared with Cris Cyborg.

Keep an eye on Barbosa’s performance. It may end up being one of the night’s biggest stories.