Ian Machado Garry vs. Joaquin Buckley Set for Explosive UFC Tampa Main Event
On December 14, Ian Machado Garry and Joaquin Buckley are slated to headline UFC Tampa at Amalie Arena, marking the year’s final UFC event. This top-ten welterweight clash promises fireworks, with both fighters eyeing title contention in 2025. Following Belal Muhammad’s withdrawal from UFC 310, Garry and Buckley were paired, intensifying the event’s draw for fans and analysts alike.
Machado Garry’s Unstoppable Rise
Garry (15-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC) has quickly risen as one of the welterweight division’s most promising contenders. Known for his precision and technical skill, Garry is undefeated since entering the UFC. He started 2024 with a narrow split-decision win against Geoff Neal, followed by a decisive performance against Michael “Venom” Page at UFC 303. Ranked #7, Garry has defeated established names like Daniel Rodriguez and Neil Magny, positioning himself closer to the top. His matchup with Buckley could determine whether he secures a title eliminator fight in early 2025.
Buckley’s Impressive Welterweight Journey
Joaquin Buckley (20-6 MMA, 10-4 UFC) has found new momentum since dropping to welterweight in 2023. Formerly a middleweight known for his raw knockout power, Buckley has flourished in his new division, compiling five straight wins. Ranked #9, he boasts notable victories, including finishes over Vicente Luque and Stephen Thompson, which showcased his adaptability and explosive power. “New Mansa” now hopes to add Garry’s name to his win column and push himself further up the rankings.
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Potential Implications for the Welterweight Division
While neither fighter stepped in to replace Muhammad at UFC 310, the outcome of this matchup could shape the division’s 2025 landscape. A decisive victory would boost either Garry or Buckley into the title conversation, especially with the uncertainty following Muhammad’s recent injury. Garry, with his undefeated record, has the momentum, while Buckley’s experience and power make him a formidable opponent. As they clash in Tampa, both will look to make a statement, potentially setting up a high-stakes bout early next year.
Full UFC Tampa Fight Card (UK Time)
- Welterweight: Ian Machado Garry vs. Joaquin Buckley
- Strawweight (women): Mackenzie Dern vs. Amanda Ribas
- Light Heavyweight: Dustin Jacoby vs. Vitor Petrino
- Flyweight (women): Tracy Cortez vs. Miranda Maverick
- Strawweight (women): Josefine Knutsson vs. Piera Rodriguez
- Middleweight: Navajo Stirling vs. Tuco Tokkos
- Bantamweight: Davey Grant vs. Ramon Taveras
- Flyweight: Manel Kape vs. Bruno Silva
- Lightweight: Ottman Azaitar vs. Michael Johnson
- Bantamweight: Daniel Marcos vs. Adrian Yanez
UFC Tampa promises a thrilling close to the year, bringing together some of the most dynamic matchups in the promotion. For more details, visit MMAnytt.se
