UFC Tampa
The UFC concluded its 2024 calendar season this past weekend with an electrifying event at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida! Joaquin Buckley showcased his striking prowess in the main event, defeating former interim champion Colby Covington via TKO due to a doctor’s stoppage in the third round. Buckley’s relentless pressure and ability to open a significant cut above Covington’s eye halted the fight, marking a significant milestone in Buckley’s welterweight career.
The night was filled with thrilling finishes, including Cub Swanson’s brutal knockout of Billy Quarantillo in the co-main event. Other standout performances included Manel Kape’s TKO victory over Bruno Silva and Dustin Jacoby’s comeback win against Vitor Petrino. The event featured a total of six finishes, earning several fighters performance bonuses for their spectacular displays. As the curtain falls on 2024, UFC Tampa left fans eagerly anticipating what’s next for these rising stars and seasoned veterans alike.
As 2024 comes to a close, let’s take a look at some matchups for a few of the winners for this past weekend’s UFC Tampa

Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Joaquin Buckley Calls for Kamaru Usman
Joaquin Buckley’s impressive TKO victory over Colby Covington at UFC Tampa has catapulted him into the welterweight elite, and his post-fight callout of Kamaru Usman makes perfect sense for his next move. Buckley’s relentless pressure and striking prowess proved too much for Covington, resulting in a doctor’s stoppage due to a severe cut. This win over a former interim champion solidifies Buckley’s status as a legitimate contender in the division.
A matchup with Usman would be a compelling test for both fighters. Usman, despite his recent setbacks, remains one of the most accomplished welterweights in UFC history. For Buckley, facing the former champion would provide an opportunity to prove he belongs among the division’s top echelon. Meanwhile, Usman needs a high-profile fight to reignite his career, and Buckley’s rising star power makes this an attractive option. This potential clash would not only determine Buckley’s readiness for a title shot but would also reveal if Usman still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Featherweights Cub Swanson, left, and Doo Ho Choi, right, put on a classic at UFC 206 in Toronto. (Peter Power/CP)
Cub Swanson Wants Doo Ho Choi Rematch
Cub Swanson’s recent knockout victory over Billy Quarantillo at UFC Tampa has reignited discussions about his future in the octagon. Rather than retiring, a rematch with Doo Ho Choi presents an exciting opportunity for Swanson. Their first encounter in 2016 was a legendary battle, earning Fight of the Year honors and cementing both fighters’ reputations as fan favorites. The epic brawl even made it into the UFC Hall of Fame. A second bout would rekindle that magic and give Swanson a chance to showcase his enduring skills against a familiar rival.
For Choi, who recently secured a TKO win over Nate Landwehr, facing Swanson again could offer redemption and a path back into the spotlight. Both fighters are known for their striking prowess and willingness to engage in thrilling exchanges, promising another unforgettable contest. This matchup would captivate fans and honor Swanson’s legacy while potentially launching Choi back into title contention.

Manel Kape Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Manel Kape Ready for a Title Shot?
Manel Kape’s impressive knockout victory over Bruno Silva at UFC Tampa has reignited his momentum in the flyweight division. While Kape has been vocal about wanting a title shot against Alexandre Pantoja, a more strategic matchup would be a rematch against Kai Asakura. Asakura, despite his recent loss to Pantoja, remains a formidable opponent with a striking style that mirrors Kape’s aggressive approach. This fight would not only be a thrilling spectacle for fans but also provide Kape with an opportunity to solidify his position as a top contender.
A bout with Asakura could serve as a stepping stone for Kape, further solidifying his notion that he deserves the next title shot. As both fighters are known for their striking capabilities, this matchup promises fireworks and could potentially headline a future UFC event. If Kape can go in there and beat Asakura a second time in his career, Dana White and the UFC will have no choice but to give him the title shot he’s been longing for.