Photo by Chris Unger | Zuffa LLC

UFC Tampa

On December 15, Joaquin Buckley headlined the final UFC event of 2024, achieving a career-defining TKO victory over Colby Covington via doctor stoppage. The win not only cemented his status as one of the most explosive welterweights in the division, but also solidified his path to a potential title shot. Here’s everything you need to know about Buckley’s incredible journey and what makes him a fighter to watch.

A Challenging Start in Life

Buckley never met his father, who abandoned his mother before he was born. Raised by a single mother in his grandmother’s house, Joaquin faced tragedy early in life. When he was in sixth grade, his mother passed away from a heart attack, leaving his grandmother to raise him.

The loss profoundly affected young Buckley, who became withdrawn, spending his days writing stories and watching cartoons. His grandmother eventually encouraged him to try sports as a way to connect with others and find purpose.

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Finding MMA and Tyson Inspiration

Buckley discovered a natural talent for combat sports. Though he embraced MMA, his idol was heavyweight boxing legend Mike Tyson. Short, powerful, and explosive, Tyson became a blueprint for Buckley’s approach to fighting. Joaquin often mimicked Tyson’s signature moves during training, where he would spend up to eight hours a day honing his craft.

However, financial struggles made his journey harder. To afford gym fees, Buckley worked as a pharmacist while continuing to train. His dedication paid off, and in 2014, he made his MMA debut.

Climbing the Ranks

Between 2016 and 2018, Buckley competed in Bellator, earning three wins and two losses. In 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, he broke into the UFC after securing two stoppage victories in LFA. However, his debut didn’t go as planned—he suffered a loss to Kevin Holland.

Buckley’s resilience shone through in his next fight, where he delivered one of the most iconic knockouts in UFC history against Impa Kasanganay with a spinning back kick. The highlight-reel finish skyrocketed his popularity, but inconsistency plagued him as he was knocked out by Alessio Di Chirico just months later.

MMA Fighting | Joaquin Buckley

The Welterweight Renaissance

In 2022, after a mixed run at middleweight, Buckley returned to the welterweight division, where he had competed earlier in his career. The move proved to be transformative. Buckley went on a five-fight winning streak, including three knockouts, showcasing the power and explosiveness that made him a fan favorite.

At UFC 310, Buckley entered the fight ranked #9 in the welterweight division. Facing Colby Covington, a perennial contender, was his biggest test yet.

 

Photo by Chris Unger | Zuffa LLC

The Covington Fight: A Statement Victory

Joaquin Buckley’s TKO victory over Colby Covington at UFC 310 wasn’t just another win—it was a statement. Buckley’s striking, speed, and ability to manage the pressure of a seasoned fighter like Covington proved his evolution as a complete fighter. The doctor stoppage was a decisive conclusion, earning Buckley the biggest win of his career.

With this victory, Buckley has shattered Covington’s fortress and positioned himself as a legitimate title contender in the stacked welterweight division.

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – JULY 11: in their welterweight championship bout during UFC 251 at Flash Forum on July 11, 2020 in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

What’s Next for Buckley?

Buckley’s relentless activity—14 fights in four years—sets him apart in a division where consistency is rare. His fan-friendly style, marked by high-paced action and highlight-reel finishes, makes him a marketable star in the making.

With Colby Covington out of the picture, Buckley has his eyes set on the welterweight gold. His combination of power, speed, and resilience makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division. Although the Tampa crowd certainly had their preference: Kamaru Usman…

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