Kamaru Usman could barely catch his breath after snapping a three-fight losing streak at UFC Atlanta. The former welterweight champion outpointed Joaquin Buckley in a dominant unanimous decision, taking the first four rounds with ease.

It was Usman's first win since 2021, marking a powerful return for the 38-year-old, who now reenters title contention.

At the post-fight press conference, when asked if the victory reminded fans of his greatness, Usman paused, visibly emotional.

“It’s hard,” he said, fighting back tears. “It’s been a while,not just getting back in here, but getting back in the win column.”

Usman's last win came in November 2021 against Colby Covington. He lost his belt in dramatic fashion nine months later, knocked out by Leon Edwards, a moment that started his rough patch.

Now, "The Nigerian Nightmare" is back, and he’s got something to prove.