Colby Covington is set to face Joaquin Buckley in the UFC Tampa main event on December 14, 2024, after Buckley’s original opponent was reassigned, marking Covington’s return following a loss to Leon Edwards.
Colby Covington is back. Yes, you heard that right! The former interim welterweight champion is set to make his first appearance in 2024. He’ll be facing off against Joaquin Buckley in the new UFC Tampa main event on Dec. 14.
UFC CEO Dana White made the announcement after a shake-up in the lineup. Buckley’s original opponent, Ian Machado Garry, was pulled from the card. Why? To face Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310 instead. Talk about a plot twist!
Covington’s return follows a tough decision loss to Leon Edwards in December 2023. It marked his third unsuccessful attempt to become the undisputed welterweight champion. Before that stumble, he had taken down former friend and teammate Jorge Masvidal to earn another shot at the title.
In his last six fights, Covington stands at an even 3-3. But he’s looking to change that narrative when he steps back into the octagon this December.
Now, let’s talk Buckley. This boisterous welterweight contender has been turning heads since moving to 170 pounds. He’s racked up an impressive 5-0 record, including knockout victories over Vicente Luque and two-time UFC title challenger Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson.
Buckley had been itching for a shot at a higher-ranked or more prominent opponent. Looks like his wishes have come true with this main event clash against Covington.
Mark your calendars! UFC Tampa is happening on Dec. 14 at the Amalie Arena. The full card and bout order? Still under wraps for now. Stay tuned!