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Usman's Moneyweight Mindset, McGregor's Injury Rumors

Usman embraces 'moneyweight' status, McGregor injury rumors swirl, and Cannonier redefines the gatekeeper role.

Usman's Moneyweight Mindset, McGregor's Injury Rumors

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UFC Oklahoma City delivered some exciting finishes and big statements, but the buzz extends beyond the octagon. We’re diving into Kamaru Usman’s new mindset, whispers about Conor McGregor’s health, and what’s next for some top contenders.

Usman’s Moneyweight Mindset

Kamaru Usman, ahead of his fight against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC Oklahoma City, declared himself a ‘moneyweight’ fighter. This term, which he coined, signifies his focus on significant, high-profile bouts rather than chasing a specific weight class or title. Usman, a former welterweight champion, has been exploring options across different divisions, including a potential move to light heavyweight. This strategic shift suggests he’s prioritizing legacy fights and big paydays, aiming for matchups that generate maximum interest and financial reward. He’s clearly looking beyond traditional title paths for his next chapter in the UFC.

McGregor Injury Rumors Surface

Speculation is mounting about Conor McGregor’s condition leading into his recent fight at UFC 329. Israel Adesanya, the former middleweight champion, suggested that McGregor might have been dealing with a prior injury. This isn’t the first time such rumors have circulated around McGregor’s high-stakes bouts. While details remain unconfirmed, the suggestion from a fellow high-profile fighter like Adesanya adds weight to the conversation. It raises questions about the circumstances surrounding McGregor’s performance and what might have been happening behind the scenes.

Cannonier Embraces Gatekeeper Role

Jared Cannonier, a consistent presence in the middleweight top 5, has a unique perspective on being labeled a ‘gatekeeper.’ He views it not as an insult, but as a testament to his consistent high-level performance and ability to test rising contenders. Cannonier believes that after years of being at the top of the division, he deserves million-dollar contracts. He’s looking for the financial recognition that comes with his status, highlighting the value he brings to the UFC as a fighter who consistently faces and defeats top talent, making him a crucial benchmark for anyone aspiring to a title shot.

UFC Oklahoma City Recap

UFC Oklahoma City delivered some notable results, with the main card featuring some exciting finishes. In the co-main event, Kamaru Usman faced Dricus Du Plessis, a fight that had significant implications for both men’s careers. The prelims also showcased some impressive performances, setting the tone for the night. Denise Gomes, who secured a win at the event, is already slated for her next challenge, facing a former title challenger at UFC Shanghai. These quick turnarounds keep the action flowing and highlight the competitive nature of the UFC’s various divisions.

Belgrade Gets New Co-Main Event

UFC Belgrade has a new co-main event after a last-minute change. Former light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz is now set to face Navajo Stirling. This replacement matchup ensures that the event maintains a strong co-headliner, providing fans with another high-stakes bout. Blachowicz, a seasoned veteran, will be looking to make a statement against Stirling, who steps in on short notice. These kinds of adjustments are common in MMA, and it’s always interesting to see how fighters adapt to new opponents and circumstances.

From the community

Over on r/MMA, fans are talking about this: Dricus du Plessis (-350) opens as massive favorite over Kamaru Usman (+285) in UFC Oklahoma City main event.

Sources

Every source behind today's roundup (14)

We summarize the day’s news in our own words. Full credit to the outlets below for the original reporting, click through to read their work:

Open Scoring MMA is a daily AI-produced MMA and UFC news podcast. Listen to today’s episode, read the full Feed, or get every episode by email.

Episode transcript

Read the full episode transcript

Welcome to Open Scoring MMA. This is episode 28 for July 17, 2026, your daily look at what’s happening now and next across the world of MMA and UFC.

Alright, let’s dive straight into the action because UFC Oklahoma City just wrapped up its weigh-ins, setting the stage for what looks to be a massive Fight Night event. The headliner, we’re hearing, is a middleweight clash between the former champ Dricus Du Plessis and Kamaru Usman. Now, this is interesting because Usman is reportedly making his return to the 185-pound division after securing a decision win in his last outing. Du Plessis, on the other hand, is coming in with a lot of confidence, and he’s made it clear that he believes the winner of this bout absolutely deserves to fight Sean Strickland next for the UFC middleweight title. It’s a high-stakes affair, and both men are looking to make a statement. Usman himself has been calling himself a “moneyweight” fighter, which tells you he’s not limiting himself to just one division. He’s looking for the big fights, the big paydays, and he’s willing to move up or down to get them. It’s a smart play in today’s UFC landscape, where big names can dictate their terms a little more. Word is the prelims and main card results for UFC Oklahoma City are already out, and we’ll have a full breakdown for you in our next episode.

Speaking of big names, there’s been some chatter swirling around Conor McGregor and his recent fight at UFC 329. Israel Adesanya, the former middleweight champion, has suggested that McGregor might have entered that bout injured. This comes after the controversial outcome of the main event, and while McGregor himself was quick to deny any previous injury, and word is the UFC even took steps to legitimize his return and dispute those rumors, Adesanya’s comments definitely add another layer to the discussion. It’s not uncommon for fighters to go into a bout with nagging injuries, but to hear a fellow high-profile fighter like Adesanya bring it up certainly raises eyebrows. It makes you wonder what really went on behind the scenes and if that played a role in the fight’s outcome. McGregor is a warrior, no doubt, but even the toughest fighters can be hampered by injuries.

Now, let’s talk about a fighter who’s embracing his role in the division: Jared Cannonier. He’s been pretty vocal about not being bothered by the impression that he’s become a gatekeeper in the UFC middleweight division. He told Sherdog, quote, “So here I am, the guy who hasn’t been able to win as consistently as I would like,” end quote. He continued, quote, “So therefore, I am having to welcome these guys to the division,” end quote. It’s a pragmatic view, and honestly, there’s a lot of respect to be had for a fighter who understands his position and still performs at a high level. Being a gatekeeper means you’re still one of the best, a tough challenge for anyone trying to break into the top tier. Cannonier also made it clear that he believes he’s earned the right to get paid much more than the UFC is currently paying him, especially after years at the top. And you know what? He’s got a point. Fighters put their bodies on the line, and if you’re consistently fighting top contenders, you deserve to be compensated fairly.

We’ve got some exciting fight announcements coming up. Denise Gomes, who’s definitely on the rise, is set to face Chinese former title challenger Yan Xiaonan at UFC Shanghai on August 29th. This is a true clash of generations in women’s MMA, and it’s going to be a huge test for Gomes. Xiaonan is a tough out, a former title challenger, and this fight promises to shake up the top of the strawweight ranking. It’s a fantastic matchup, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how Gomes handles the pressure against such an experienced opponent.

And speaking of card changes, Jan Blachowicz has a new opponent for UFC Belgrade. His original opponent, Bogdan Guskov, was shifted to UFC Abu Dhabi to face Magomed Ankalaev, which is a big fight in itself. So, promotion officials announced that the former light heavyweight champion Blachowicz will now reportedly face the undefeated Navajo Stirling on the Fight Night card. Stirling is ten and zero, an absolute force, and this is a massive opportunity for him to make a name for himself against a former champion. Blachowicz is a seasoned veteran, but Stirling is a dangerous, hungry fighter who’s looking to climb the ranks. This is a fantastic replacement fight and a great addition to the Belgrade card.

Now, let’s talk about a legend who’s found peace in retirement. UFC Hall of Famer Demetrious Johnson, “Mighty Mouse” himself, has explained why he retired, and he’s made it clear that he has no regrets about walking away from mixed martial arts. It’s always great to see a fighter leave the sport on their own terms, healthy and happy, especially after such a dominant career. Johnson is one of the greatest of all time, and his decision to step away when he did is a testament to his intelligence and self-awareness.

And in other big news, Jon Jones’ latest comments about Dana White could really change how fans view his UFC future. Jones has indicated that he’s willing to “let bygones be bygones” to do business with Dana White. This is huge, considering the past tensions and public disagreements between the two. If Jones and White can truly bury the hatchet, it opens up a world of possibilities for future fights and could lead to some massive pay per view events. Jones is still one of the biggest draws in the sport, and a harmonious relationship with the UFC brass can only benefit everyone involved.

DUKE: Nora, we’ve got to talk about this Magomed Zaynukov versus Damian Rzepecki fight.

NORA: That’s right, Duke. Our system is now picking Magomed Zaynukov to win, with an approximate eighty percent chance. The betting line implies around seventy-four percent, so we’re seeing a bit more confidence in Zaynukov than the market.

DUKE: Eighty percent, that’s a strong call. What’s driving that shift?

NORA: The primary reasons for the pick are Zaynukov’s recent form and the sentiment surrounding his performances. Our data indicates a stronger trajectory for him.

DUKE: So, the eye test, the way he’s been looking, is finally catching up to the numbers?

NORA: You could say that. The model has adjusted its weighting based on more recent performance metrics and perceived momentum. It’s a value pick for us, as we like it more than the current line.

DUKE: I love a good value pick. So, we’re saying Zaynukov is the play here, and we’re more confident than the bookies. I can get behind that.

NORA: Indeed. The model has spoken.

Alright, that’s all the time we’ve got for today on Open Scoring MMA. Make sure to tune in next time for all the results from UFC Oklahoma City and more breaking news from the world of mixed martial arts. Until then, keep those hands up and your chins down.

Before you go, two quick things. Check out our free Fight Tracker at tracker dot open scoring m m a dot com, with every upcoming UFC and PFL card, live odds, and where to watch, all in one place. And follow us on YouTube, just search Open Scoring MMA, for breaking news alerts, fight breakdowns, and videos you won’t get here on the feed. That’s it for today’s Open Scoring MMA. Keep your hands up, and we’ll see you next time.