- George Chung
- Dec 11, 2024
- 2 min read
The stage is set for an electrifying main event at UFC Fight Night Tampa 2024: Covington vs. Buckley, where former interim Welterweight Champion Colby “Chaos” Covington will square off against the dynamic and unpredictable Joaquin “New Mansa” Buckley. This clash of welterweight warriors not only promises fireworks but could also have major implications for the divisional rankings.
The Build-Up: Colby Covington’s Grit vs. Joaquin Buckley’s Explosiveness
Colby Covington (17-3), one of the most polarizing figures in MMA, is known for his relentless cardio, wrestling pedigree, and unrelenting pace. A staple of the welterweight elite, Covington has faced—and beaten—some of the biggest names in the division, including Tyron Woodley and Robbie Lawler. However, after coming up short in two title bids against Kamaru Usman, Covington is on a mission to reestablish himself as a top contender.
For Covington, this fight isn’t just about victory; it’s about dominance. "I’m going to grind him into the ground," Covington declared in a recent interview. "I’m here to remind everyone why I’m still the king without a crown."
On the other hand, Joaquin Buckley (17-6) has steadily climbed the ranks with his jaw-dropping knockouts and growing arsenal of skills. Buckley, who catapulted to fame with his viral spinning back kick KO of Impa Kasanganay, has since evolved into a well-rounded fighter. A win over Covington would cement Buckley’s place among the division’s elite and could set him up for a marquee fight against a top-5 opponent.
What to Expect: A Clash of Styles
The Covington vs. Buckley matchup is a classic clash of styles. Covington thrives on grinding his opponents with suffocating pressure, chaining takedowns, and overwhelming them with volume striking. Buckley, however, is a highlight-reel finisher with knockout power in both hands and feet. His unorthodox striking and explosive athleticism could pose a significant threat to Covington’s forward pressure.
Key Questions to Consider:
Will Covington’s cardio and wrestling neutralize Buckley’s power?
Can Buckley land a game-changing strike before being dragged into deep waters?
How will Covington’s experience against top-tier opponents fare against Buckley’s raw athleticism and hunger?
High Stakes for the Rankings
This fight holds significant weight for the welterweight rankings. A win for Covington could thrust him back into title contention, especially with current champion Belal Muhammad keeping a watchful eye on the division. For Buckley, a victory over a name like Covington would not only validate his rise but also open doors to a potential top-5 matchup or even a title eliminator.
Both fighters are aware of the stakes. "This isn’t just another fight; it’s my ticket to the top," Buckley said at the pre-fight press conference. Covington, unfazed, responded, "I’ve fought killers before. Buckley’s just another name on my list."
Expect Fireworks
As fight night approaches, fans are bracing for an unforgettable showdown. Will Covington’s relentless wrestling grind out another victory, or will Buckley’s power and creativity deliver a shocking upset? One thing is certain—when these two welterweights meet in the Octagon, Tampa will witness a battle for the ages.
