Joaquin Buckley is establishing himself as a vocal contender in the UFC welterweight division. Following the withdrawal of current champion Belal Muhammad due to a toe injury, the stage is set for potential changes in UFC 310’s main event, and Buckley isn’t shying away from the spotlight. With a robust fight record and an undeniable charisma, he has thrown his hat into the ring to face the undefeated Shavkat Rakhmonov, who boasts an impressive record of 18 wins with no losses. Buckley’s enthusiasm for a fight against Rakhmonov has sparked conversation within the MMA community, and it’s time to examine his chances and the implications this may have for the division.
The timing of Buckley’s callout could not be more strategic. With Muhammad sidelined and the promotion yet to confirm a replacement, Buckley has swiftly moved to capitalize on the uncertainty. His claim that he is the fighter fans really want to see contrasts sharply with the discussions surrounding Ian Machado Garry, who is also being considered as a prospective opponent for Rakhmonov. This bold assertion not only demonstrates his confidence but also his understanding of the fight game’s spotlight—remaining relevant even when not in immediate competition is crucial.
Buckley’s record speaks for itself; he holds a total of 20 wins, with 14 of those coming via knockout. Moreover, his current five-fight winning streak lends substantial weight to his claim. As he points out, both he and Rakhmonov have a penchant for delivering finishes, with the latter garnering a reputation for a powerful finish ratio—18 finishes, including 10 submissions and 8 knockouts. This shared characteristic positions their potential matchup as one that promises excitement for fans, making Buckley’s argument increasingly compelling.
In analyzing the stylistic matchup, Buckley’s striking power edges him toward a favorable encounter against Rakhmonov. While Machado Garry possesses a flawless record, it lacks the level of knockout potency that Buckley brings. “This is the fight that y’all got to make,” he emphasized, underscoring his ambition and determination to ascend the ranks. Furthermore, Buckley’s previous victory against former title contender Stephen Thompson reinforces his readiness to take on high-caliber opponents.
Despite Buckley’s confidence, the UFC landscape is notoriously unpredictable. The promotion often prioritizes marketability and current momentum rather than merely records. While Buckley is making a strong case, it remains to be seen whether the UFC will favor him over other contenders such as Machado Garry. That said, should the matchup materialize, it would not only serve as a critical contention for the welterweight title but also showcase two fighters with incredible finishing abilities.
As UFC 310 approaches, the buildup and anticipation surrounding the main event will only intensify. With potential contenders like Joaquin Buckley making bold claims and pushing for opportunities, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this unfolds. Buckley’s hunger for the fight against Rakhmonov is more than just a personal ambition—it represents the ongoing evolution of fighters in the welterweight division, each vying for their moment in the limelight. If Buckley gets his wish, we could witness a thrilling confrontation that encapsulates the essence of mixed martial arts—dynamic, unpredictable, and always entertaining.