As the MMA community eagerly anticipates UFC on ESPN 63, the spotlight shines brightly on the matchup between Colby Covington and reigning welterweight prospect Joaquin Buckley. Covington, a former champion with a professional record of 17-4 and a notable 12-4 in the UFC, is stepping back into the octagon after a lengthy hiatus following his defeat to Leon Edwards. His opponent, Buckley, who boasts a record of 20-6 and a 10-4 standing in the UFC, has made waves with his aggressive style and explosive performance in the cage. This fight presents a compelling narrative, one that raises questions about Covington’s resilience and adaptability after a year-long absence from competitive action.
One of the most critical factors surrounding Covington’s return is his layoff. With a history of intense competition, Covington has been out of action since his title challenge against Edwards in December 2023. Kamaru Usman, a prominent figure in the division and previously one of Covington’s fiercest rivals, has voiced concerns regarding Covington’s potential rust. In a recent episode of his “Pound 4 Pound” podcast, Usman articulated a clear worry about how Covington’s inactivity could impact his performance, particularly against a challenger like Buckley, who isn’t known for easing into a fight.
Usman emphasized that Buckley’s aggressive fighting style demands immediate engagement from opponents. “Buckley is hungry, aggressive, and going to come after Covington early,” Usman noted, highlighting the stark difference in momentum between the two fighters. Buckley’s capability to start strong could capitalize on Covington’s slow revival from inactivity, forcing him into a reactive rather than proactive stance early in the match.
The fight does not just boil down to the psychological effects of layoff but also to the tactical approaches each fighter will employ. Buckley is known for his striking prowess, providing a significant challenge for Covington, who thrives in grappling scenarios. Usman pointed out that Covington must grapple effectively if he hopes to shift the momentum in his favor: “He has to be able to get a hold of Buckley, get him into wrestling and grappling.” The strategy of closing the distance and leveraging his wrestling skills against an explosive striker is paramount for Covington’s success.
This fight is particularly crucial for Covington’s career trajectory. A victory could re-establish him as a viable title contender in the welterweight division while simultaneously pulling the rug out from under Buckley’s rising star. Conversely, a loss could deepen the doubts about Covington’s ability to bounce back and compete at an elite level post layoff.
This matchup not only rekindles interest in Covington’s career but also sets the stage for Buckley to solidify his status among the welterweight elite. The stakes are inherently high, not just for rankings, but for legacy within the UFC. As fans await the clash at Amalie Arena, the outcomes hinge on whether Covington can shake off the rust against a hungry adversary who is eager to seize the moment. The unpredictability of this contest makes it one of the most anticipated fights of the year, encapsulating the unpredictable nature of the sport itself.