Dricus du Plessis Wins $100,000 Bonus at UFC Oklahoma City

Dricus du Plessis Wins $100,000 Bonus at UFC Oklahoma City

Dricus du Plessis (24-3 MMA, 10-1 UFC) took home a $100,000 bonus at UFC Oklahoma City, where he put on a masterful performance against former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman (21-5 MMA, 16-4 UFC).

What happened?

On July 18, 2026, du Plessis faced off against Usman in the main event of UFC Fight Night 281 at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. The South African MMA athlete dominated the fight, frequently making Usman look slow. Despite the broadcast team praising Usman's grit in the third round, du Plessis' scorecards included a 50-45 victory.

Why it matters for Dricus du Plessis

Du Plessis' win is a significant milestone in his UFC career. The bonus money will undoubtedly be a welcome addition to his growing bankroll. Moreover, the victory will likely boost his confidence ahead of his next fight.

What comes next?

As for what's next for du Plessis, it's unclear. However, one thing is certain: the South African MMA athlete will be looking to build on his momentum in the coming months. With a growing reputation in the UFC, du Plessis is sure to be a force to be reckoned with in the middleweight division.

Performance of the Night

Felipe Franco (11-2 MMA, 1-1 UFC) turned in a performance to remember for his first win in the UFC when he took out Levi Rodrigues (5-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC) with a second-round TKO. Back at 205 pounds after a loss in his UFC debut at heavyweight, Franco mounted Rodrigues and pounded him out in the second frame.

Finish bonus

R.J. Harris (6-0 MMA, 1-0 UFC) had a stellar debut in the UFC at heavyweight when he drilled Alvin Hines (7-2 MMA, 0-2 UFC) with an uppercut in the first round that took him off his feet. Harris was on him in the bat of an eye and a few punches later had a stoppage in 100 seconds.

Finish bonus

Dione Barbosa (10-4 MMA, 4-2 UFC) made things look easy against Alice Melisano (6-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC). Knowing her easiest path to victory was on the canvas, she took the UFC newcomer and "TUF" grad down right away, then worked her way to an eventual rear-naked choke finish in the opening round.

Fight of the Night

Dricus du Plessis and Kamaru Usman were awarded the Fight of the Night bonus, each taking home $100,000. The victory marked a significant milestone in du Plessis' UFC career, and it's clear that he's a force to be reckoned with in the middleweight division.