How a former NCAA champion became a UFC welterweight legend
In short: From a modest upbringing in Nigeria to dominating the UFC welterweight division, Kamaru Usman’s journey is defined by elite wrestling and tactical evolution. Once a wrestling coach, he transformed into a championship fighter, setting records for winning streaks and takedown defense through a relentless blend of grappling and striking.
Born in Auchi, Nigeria, Kamarudeen Usman immigrated to Dallas, Texas, at age eight. His path to professional mixed martial arts was paved by an elite wrestling pedigree. After a collegiate career that included becoming a 2010 NCAA Division II national champion at 174 pounds, Usman turned to MMA in November 2012 following injuries that derailed his Olympic wrestling ambitions.
Usman's ascent in the UFC was marked by a significant technical evolution. Initially, he relied heavily on his wrestling background, using clinch control and pressure to dominate opponents. However, under the guidance of coach Trevor Wittman, his striking improved significantly, allowing him to win high-profile knockouts against fighters like Gilbert Burns and Jorge Masvidal.
His dominance in the welterweight division was underscored by a 15-fight winning streak, the longest in the division's history. He also holds a 97.3% takedown defense rate. His championship reign included successful defenses against notable opponents such as Tyron Woodley, Colby Covington, and Jorge Masvidal, the latter of whom Usman defeated via knockout in a 2021 rematch.
Despite his success, Usman's career has seen shifts in weight classes and competitive outcomes. After losing his title to Leon Edwards in August 2022, he transitioned to the middleweight division, competing against Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus du Plessis. As of September 2026, he remains a significant figure in the sport, ranked #12 in the Meta UFC welterweight rankings.
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