Rankings Shakeup: Kamaru Usman Returns to the Welterweight Top 5?

Kamaru Usman delivered a classic performance at UFC Atlanta, picking up right where he left off. This raises the question: where does he now stand in the congested welterweight rankings?

While Usman defeated top 10 contender Joaquin Buckley, his return isn`t merely a case of the former champion replacing Buckley`s spot. Usman was ranked No. 4 before falling out due to over two years of inactivity in the welterweight division. During his absence, the division saw significant activity, and a new group of contenders emerged, including Shavkat Rakhmonov, Sean Brady, Ian Machado Garry, and Michael Morales.

Is it justifiable for Usman to bypass these fighters who have consistently secured significant victories during his hiatus? Furthermore, there`s the consideration of Leon Edwards, the current champion, who defeated Usman twice in UFC title fights.

The panel`s consensus is that yes, Usman has indeed returned to the top 5, positioned behind Rakhmonov and Brady, but ahead of Garry and the undefeated Morales. Ultimately, the panel found it difficult to overlook his impressive performance on Saturday, alongside his celebrated history in the welterweight division and even his resilient performances in recent losses during his three-fight skid. Despite being 38, the Usman seen in Atlanta suggests he remains a formidable challenge for anyone in the division, including top contender Jack Della Maddalena.

Usman reportedly stated he is waiting for the outcome of a potential future fight between Della Maddalena and MMA Fighting`s Pound-for-Pound king Islam Makhachev. However, a compelling alternative is a grudge match with Belal Muhammad. Should Usman deliver a performance against Muhammad similar to his recent win over Buckley, his status as an all-time welterweight great aiming for one more title shot would be difficult to dispute.