This highly anticipated welterweight clash pits Colby "Chaos" Covington, a former Interim UFC Welterweight Champion, against Joaquin "New Mansa" Buckley, a knockout artist known for his explosive striking. Both fighters are looking to make a statement in the division, with Covington aiming to rebound from his recent loss and Buckley looking to continue his strong run of form.

Colby Covington (17-4)

Covington, 36, is renowned for his relentless pace, elite wrestling, and cardio. A product of MMA Masters, Covington excels in grinding out opponents with his grappling and high-pressure style. While his striking has improved over the years, his primary strength lies in his ability to control the fight through wrestling and top control.

Strengths:

* Exceptional wrestling and takedowns.
* Unrelenting pace and cardio, able to push the action for five rounds.
* High fight IQ and ability to implement a game plan.

Challenges:

* Striking is not as powerful as his wrestling, and he can struggle against dangerous strikers.
* Vulnerable to knockouts when he gets too aggressive on the feet.

Last Five Fights:

* Loss vs. Leon Edwards – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC 296 (Dec 16, 2023)
* Win vs. Jorge Masvidal – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC 272 (Mar 5, 2022)
* Loss vs. Kamaru Usman – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC 268 (Nov 6, 2021)
* Win vs. Tyron Woodley – TKO (Rib Injury) at UFC Fight Night 178 (Sep 19, 2020)
* Win vs. Robbie Lawler – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC on ESPN 5 (Aug 3, 2019)

Joaquin Buckley (20-6)

Buckley, 30, is a powerful striker with a knack for finishing fights quickly. Standing at 5'8" and with a knockout ratio of 70%, Buckley is a dangerous fighter on the feet, capable of ending the fight with a single punch or kick. His aggressive style makes him a thrilling fighter, but his defensive wrestling has been an area of concern in the past.

Strengths:

* Explosive knockout power, capable of finishing fights with punches or kicks.
* Aggressive and unorthodox striking, keeping opponents on their toes.
* High-pressure fighter who thrives in exchanges.

Challenges:

* Struggles against opponents who can control the pace and take the fight to the ground.
* Defensive wrestling is a weakness, which could be exploited by grapplers.

Last Five Fights:

* Win vs. Stephen Thompson – KO (Punch) at UFC 307 (Oct 5, 2024)
* Win vs. Nursulton Ruziboev – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC on ESPN 56 (May 11, 2024)
* Win vs. Vicente Luque – TKO (Punches) at UFC on ESPN 54 (Mar 30, 2024)
* Win vs. Alex Morono – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC Fight Night 229 (Oct 7, 2023)
* Win vs. Andre Fialho – TKO (Head Kick) at UFC Fight Night 223 (May 20, 2023)

Prediction

This matchup is likely to be a clash of styles, with Covington looking to implement his wrestling and relentless pressure, while Buckley will aim to keep the fight standing and use his knockout power. Covington's wrestling and ability to control the pace of the fight should be the key to his victory. Buckley’s knockout power makes him a constant threat, but if Covington can take him down and avoid getting into striking exchanges, he will likely grind out a decision.

Key Factors:

* Covington's ability to control the fight with his wrestling and takedowns.
* Buckley’s striking power and his ability to keep the fight on the feet.

While Buckley’s power makes him dangerous, Covington’s well-rounded game and elite wrestling should give him the edge in this fight. Covington will likely take the fight to the ground and wear down Buckley over five rounds.

Pick: Colby Covington by unanimous decision.