Kamaru Usman moves to middleweight to face Du Plessis July 18

Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman will make his middleweight debut against ex-185-pound titleholder Dricus Du Plessis at UFC Fight Night on July 18, according to ESPN.

Usman, who dominated the welterweight division for years before losing the belt, is reportedly making the move up a weight class for the first time in his UFC tenure. Du Plessis has since dropped the middleweight strap but remains one of the division's top contenders.

What the middleweight jump means for Usman's comeback

The July 18 card marks a significant shift for Usman, who built his championship legacy at 170 pounds. Moving to middleweight could offer him a fresh path back to title contention without the grind of welterweight cuts.

Du Plessis presents a serious test. The South African fighter held the middleweight title until recently and brings power that has troubled opponents at the heavier weight.

No venue has been announced for the UFC Fight Night event.

Reported via:

• ESPN MMA — Usman moving up to face Du Plessis on July 18