The welterweight division in the UFC is currently witnessing a seismic shift in power dynamics, with a new wave of contenders emerging to challenge the established veterans. Fighters like Leon Edwards, Colby Covington, Gilbert Burns, and Stephen Thompson have all recently suffered defeats at the hands of rising prospects, setting the stage for a new era in the 170-pound division.
One fighter who has been making waves in the welterweight ranks is Joaquin Buckley. Ranked at #7 in the UFC welterweight rankings, Buckley has quickly climbed through the ranks by securing impressive wins over the likes of Covington and Thompson. His stellar performances have earned him a high-profile matchup against former champion and pound-for-pound great, Kamaru Usman, in the main event of UFC Atlanta.
Buckley is confident in his abilities and sees the fight against Usman as a stepping stone towards a title shot. He has his sights set on champion Jack Della Maddalena and believes that he has what it takes to dethrone him and claim the gold. Despite the potential hurdle of Islam Makhachev, the lightweight champion expected to challenge Della Maddalena next, Buckley remains focused on his goal and is prepared to face any opponent that brings him closer to the title.
In a recent interview, Buckley shared his thoughts on the rankings in the welterweight division, highlighting his belief that his rival Ian Machado Garry is the top contender aside from himself. With a 16-1 record as a professional, including wins over notable fighters like Geoff Neal and Michael ‘Venom’ Page, Garry has established himself as a formidable force in the division.
However, Buckley's rankings also place Shavkat Rakhmonov and Della Maddalena above Garry, showing the depth of talent in the welterweight division. Buckley's assessment of the division reflects the competitive nature of the sport and the ever-evolving landscape of MMA.
Looking ahead to his fight against Usman, Buckley is confident in his abilities and believes he can outperform the former champion. He has studied Usman's demeanor and energy, noting subtle cues that give him insight into his opponent's mindset. With a clear focus on victory, Buckley is determined to deliver a standout performance that will elevate his status in the division.
While Buckley faces stiff competition from contenders like Sean Brady, who recently defeated former champ Leon Edwards, he remains undaunted in his quest for UFC gold. With a blend of skill, confidence, and determination, Joaquin Buckley is poised to make his mark in the welterweight division and solidify his position among the top contenders in the UFC.
As UFC Atlanta approaches, all eyes will be on the main event showdown between Buckley and Usman, a clash that has the potential to redefine the welterweight landscape and shape the future of the division. Fans can expect high stakes, intense action, and a showcase of elite mixed martial arts skills as these two warriors collide inside the Octagon in a battle for supremacy.
