The final UFC event of 2024, UFC on ESPN 63, will see Colby Covington take on Joaquin Buckley in what promises to be an exciting headliner. Scheduled to take place in Tampa, Florida—hence the alternative name, UFC Tampa—this event marks the UFC’s return to the city after a five-year hiatus.
Colby Covington, currently the 6th ranked welterweight in the UFC with a 17-4 record, steps in for Ian Machado Garry, who was originally slated to fight Buckley but moved to a title eliminator fight at UFC 310. Covington, who resides in Miami, Florida, might feel at home in Tampa, but he hasn’t had much preparation time for this fight.
Covington, known as “Chaos” and a favorite of Donald Trump, has had three shots at the UFC Welterweight title but has yet to win the gold. Despite losing three of his last five fights—winning the other two by decision and technical knockout—he remains highly ranked. A win over Buckley could elevate his status even further.
Covington’s strengths include being a well-rounded martial artist with a background in college wrestling and a world championship in submission grappling. His striking skills and impressive stamina will be crucial against Buckley, a formidable kickboxer.
Joaquin Buckley, with a 20-6 record and 14 wins by knockout/technical knockout, is riding high after five consecutive victories against notable strikers such as Andre Fialho, Alex Morono, Vicente Luque, Nursulton Ruziboev, and Stephen Thompson. Known for one of the greatest knockouts in UFC history against Impa Kasanganay, Buckley was originally set to face Ian Machado Garry on December 16.
However, the UFC’s scheduling changes mean he now faces Covington, one of the best grapplers and wrestlers in the division.
Buckley boasts a takedown defense rate of 69% and has no submission losses on his record. However, he has yet to face an opponent as dangerous as Covington.
The UFC on ESPN 63 event promises to be a thrilling showdown between two skilled fighters, each looking to prove themselves in the octagon.
When, Where, and How to Watch?
- Place: Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida
- Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
- Time: 10:00 p.m. ET
- How to Watch: ESPN
Colby Covington + 215
Joaquin Buckley – 260
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, December 13, 2024
