UFC Tampa Recap: Joaquin Buckley Dominates Covington

UFC Tampa delivered an unforgettable night of fights, headlined by a career-defining performance from Joaquin Buckley and a vintage showcase from veteran Cub Swanson.

Joaquin Buckley may have sealed the fate of Colby Covington’s run as a UFC title contender in a one-sided main event that ended in a doctor’s stoppage. Buckley (21-6) showcased his power, precision, and defensive prowess against the former interim champion, battering Covington (17-5) in route to his sixth consecutive win.

The fight reached its conclusion at 4:42 of the third round after Covington’s face, drenched in blood and marked by a deep cut over his right eye, forced the ringside doctor to step in.

“I know that ain’t the fight that y’all really wanted,” Buckley said post-fight, grinning at the crowd. “I know we spilled a little blood, but I know you wanted to see a knockout, man. So my bad, y’all.”

Buckley nearly delivered that knockout in the opening round, flooring Covington with a powerful right hand in the final seconds. From there, it was all Buckley as he repeatedly found a home for his right hand while thwarting Covington’s takedown attempts. Covington managed a takedown in the second round but failed to capitalize, leaving Buckley free to unleash further damage in the third. The fight ended shortly after Buckley punished Covington on the ground, with the doctor stepping in to halt the carnage.

With the victory, Buckley cemented his status as a rising star in the welterweight division. He wasted no time calling for his next challenge, floating names like Leon Edwards, Belal Muhammad, and Kamaru Usman before landing on the former champion.

“I think it’s Kamaru Usman, baby,” Buckley declared. “Let’s do it.”

For Covington, the loss marked a stark decline in his career trajectory. The 36-year-old has now dropped four of his last six bouts, leaving questions about his future in the sport.
In the co-main event, UFC veteran and fan favorite Cub Swanson (30-14) reminded fans why he’s a legend of the sport. The 41-year-old delivered a thrilling knockout victory over Billy Quarantillo (18-7), scoring with a devastating strike at 1:36 of the third round.

Known for his wars in the cage, Swanson once again engaged in a crowd-pleasing brawl. The WEC legend and UFC Hall of Famer channeled his vintage form to secure one of the night’s most electrifying moments.

After the fight, Swanson hinted at retirement but left the door open for one more appearance.

“I kind of told my wife that this might be the last one, so we’ll see,” Swanson said. “I’m kind of old, guys. I appreciate you letting a 41-year-old dad come out here and entertain you.”

Buckley’s dominant performance positions him as a legitimate contender in the welterweight division. With six wins in a row and four highlight-reel knockouts since returning to the division, his callout of Kamaru Usman feels well-earned and promises fireworks if it comes to fruition.

As for Swanson, his career may be winding down, but his latest highlight only adds to his storied legacy. Whether or not this was his last fight, he leaves an indelible mark on the sport.

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