Dricus du Plessis says Kamaru Usman needed convincing to sign fight

Dricus Du Plessis alleged Kamaru Usman hesitated to finalize their July 18 UFC Oklahoma City headliner, underscoring the bout's late announcement. In an interview with Fight Forecast, Dricus Du Plessis said the UFC convinced Kamaru Usman to sign the contract. The UFC Oklahoma City main event was confirmed at the last moment after Du Plessis earlier said he was waiting on an opponent's signature. Du Plessis added he still views the former welterweight champion as dangerous and referenced teammate Justin Gaethje's win over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250. He also named Nassourdine Imavov as a possible option but emphasized pursuing a route back to the title.