The MMA world is buzzing after two major updates shook the UFC fanbase: Kamaru Usman is stepping into the analyst chair alongside Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen, while Justin Gaethje hints that retirement might be closer than fans think.

From octagon dominance to microphone presence, legends are evolving — but not without raising big questions about the future of the sport.

 Kamaru Usman Enters the Analyst Game

Former UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru “The Nigerian Nightmare” Usman is officially stepping into a new role — joining Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen in the UFC’s growing family of fighter-analysts.

This move, confirmed earlier this week, will see Usman appear as a guest analyst on upcoming fight cards, providing commentary, breakdowns, and behind-the-scenes insights only a former champ can offer.

“I’ve always wanted to bring a fighter’s perspective to fans, and now’s the perfect time,” Usman said during a recent interview.
“I’ve shared the cage with the best — now I want to share the knowledge.”

Fans are already excited to see how Usman’s calm, calculated approach to fighting translates into on-camera analysis, especially when paired with Chael’s sharp wit and DC’s high-level breakdowns. It’s a dream team of former champions — and a reminder that careers in MMA don’t end when the gloves come off.

 Is Justin Gaethje Hanging It Up?

While Usman transitions into a new chapter, longtime teammate and fellow fan-favorite Justin Gaethje may be nearing the end of his.

After a tough loss to Max Holloway at UFC 300 — via a jaw-dropping knockout in the final seconds — Gaethje has stayed quiet, surfacing only recently in a low-key interview where he said:

“I’ve got maybe one left in me. Or none. We’ll see.”

This has sparked retirement rumors, with fans wondering if “The Highlight” — one of the most violent, entertaining fighters in UFC history — is ready to walk away.

At 35, Gaethje has had multiple Fight of the Year performances, a run at the interim title, and legendary wars against the likes of Chandler, Poirier, and Ferguson. But with every battle, the damage adds up — and Gaethje has never been shy about wanting to leave the sport on his own terms.

“I don’t want to be one of those guys who fights past his prime,” he once said.
“When it’s time, it’s time.”

Could that time be now?

 Final Thoughts

Kamaru Usman is evolving, and Justin Gaethje may be exiting. Both are reminders of how fast MMA moves — and how even the fiercest warriors must eventually find new paths.

Whether it’s the analyst desk or the final walk to the Octagon, these two have already secured their legacies. What comes next will only add to their stories.

One microphone rising, one pair of gloves possibly being laid down. The next chapter for both starts now.