Tampa, Florida: Colby Covington Faces Off Against Joaquin Buckley Amid Training Controversy
In a surprising turn of events, Joaquin Buckley and Colby Covington are set to face each other in the main event at UFC Tampa. The matchup materialized quickly after Ian Machado Garry withdrew from the fight due to undisclosed reasons. Buckley expressed mixed feelings about Covington’s previous comments dismissing him as a nobody, pointing to their past interactions as evidence that they are more connected than Covington implies.
Who
The upcoming fight will feature two notable UFC fighters: Joaquin Buckley, a welterweight contender known for his striking power, and Colby Covington, a former title challenger with a reputation for his outspoken persona inside and outside the octagon.
What
The main event at UFC Tampa is set to highlight a thrilling welterweight clash between Buckley and Covington. Buckley has used his platform to address Covington’s comments made during a media day, leading to a dialogue about their past training interactions and current dynamics.
Where
The fight is scheduled to take place in Tampa, Florida, at a venue that often hosts high-stakes UFC bouts, aiming to draw a large audience excited for live mixed martial arts action.
When
The event will occur soon after the sudden withdrawal of Ian Machado Garry, with details regarding the exact date still being finalized.
Why
Buckley explained that Covington seemingly avoided training with him before a critical title fight against Kamaru Usman because he perceived Buckley as a potential threat. This revelation provides context for both fighters’ motivations as they prepare to step into the octagon.
During a media day appearance, Buckley remarked, “Why you lying, Colby? Why you lying?” in response to Covington’s claims of not knowing him. Buckley went on to clarify that he had approached Covington back when he was training for the fight with Usman, offering to assist him in preparation, but Covington declined the opportunity. “He just didn’t want to work,” Buckley stated, highlighting his belief that Covington opts for training partners who do not challenge him too much.
In discussing training styles, Buckley contrasted his approach with Covington’s, stating, “I like working with new guys. I like putting myself in positions where it’s going to make me better.” Buckley indicated that he believes Covington’s past losses may be linked to his preference for more comfortable training environments.
Despite the short notice for the fight against Buckley, Covington has yet to publicly make a stance. Buckley speculated that Covington may be hesitant because of the perceived challenge Buckley presents. “He wants to fight 145 [pound fighters],” Buckley claimed, suggesting that Covington might want to avoid tougher matchups. He emphasized his belief that this fight could potentially mark the last of Covington’s contract, putting added pressure on both fighters to perform.
As the fight date nears, Buckley continues to assert that Covington is facing a significant challenge. “It’s either fight or leave, retire,” Buckley concluded, suggesting the stakes are high for Covington as they prepare for their showdown in Tampa.
