Colby Covington Prepares for UFC Tampa Return Against Rising Star Joaquin Buckley

Covington seeks redemption after recent setbacks, while Buckley aims to extend his win streak in a pivotal welterweight clash.

Colby Covington will face Joaquin Buckley in the main event of UFC Tampa on December 14, marking Covington's return after a year-long hiatus following a loss to Leon Edwards.
Covington has described his recent defeats, including three failed title attempts, as a wake-up call that reignited his drive to become the undisputed welterweight champion.
Joaquin Buckley enters the fight on a five-match winning streak, with notable victories over Stephen Thompson and Vicente Luque, and is seen as a rising contender in the division.
Paddy Pimblett has hinted at a potential lightweight matchup with featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, reigniting their long-standing rivalry as Topuria considers a move to the 155-pound division.
Former light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz is set to make his comeback against Carlos Ulberg at UFC London in March 2025, a fight that could determine future title contention in the division.