Joaquin Buckley’s resurgence in the UFC welterweight division has been nothing short of extraordinary. By 2024, he had forcefully reestablished himself, amassing an impressive record of 21 wins and six losses in mixed martial arts (MMA), with a notable 11 victories in the UFC. After a short detour to the middleweight category, Buckley made a strategic move back down to 170 pounds, a decision that set the stage for what could be his most fruitful year yet. His determination to reclaim his status in the welterweight echelon became apparent early on, as he showcased his potential against formidable opponents.
Kicking off 2024 with a resounding victory against Vicente Luque at UFC on ESPN 54, Buckley captivated the audience with his knockout prowess. His success is indicative of an athlete who has meticulously honed his skills while taking the time to refine his fighting approach. The fight with Luque was crucial; not only did it demonstrate Buckley’s striking capabilities, but it also solidified his status as a contender worth noting. Following this, Buckley’s wish to fight in front of his home crowd in Missouri was granted, where he faced the rising star Nursulton Ruziboev. His performance in that bout was equally commendable, as he blended effective grappling with striking to assert his dominance.
The Defining Fight Against Stephen Thompson
The pinnacle of Buckley’s 2024 came with a significant matchup against former title challenger Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson at UFC 307. Known for his elusive striking styles, Thompson posed a considerable challenge, but Buckley rose to the occasion with a third-round knockout that not only earned him the ‘Performance of the Night’ bonus but also sent a powerful message across the division: Buckley was no longer a contender, but a viable title threat. This victory marked a transition in Buckley’s career, positioning him against elite fighters within the division and amplifying his visibility to fans and analysts alike.
Dominating the Octagon Against Covington
Capping off an exhilarating year, Buckley headlined a UFC event for the first time against former interim champion Colby Covington. The fight was a test of endurance and strategy, where Buckley showcased his remarkable grappling skills. His decisive win via a doctor’s stoppage TKO due to a cut inflicted on Covington was a clear testament to Buckley’s evolution as a fighter. The ability to not only go toe-to-toe with a seasoned contender but to dominate speaks volumes about his growth and fitness.
After enduring a challenging 2022 filled with setbacks, Buckley’s leap back to the welterweight division has ignited hope and set a new trajectory for his career. His reflections on weight classes and fighting ambitions reveal a fighter highly aware of his capabilities; his words on aiming for a championship at 170 pounds resonate with fans genuine in their support for his journey. As he aims for the pinnacle of his career, Joaquin Buckley’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of resilience in the dynamic world of mixed martial arts. His success not only highlights his talents but also sets the scene for intriguing matchups that lie ahead in the welterweight division.