In the world of mixed martial arts, particularly the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), year-end showcases are pivotal events that can alter the trajectory of fighters’ careers and reshape divisions. December 14th, 2023, marks such an occasion as Ian Machado Garry and Joaquin Buckley prepare to headline UFC Fight Night at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. This fight not only promises to deliver high-octane action but also carries significant implications for the welterweight division following recent shake-ups.
The welterweight landscape has recently been thrown into disarray after champion Belal Muhammad’s withdrawal from his highly anticipated title defense against undefeated contender Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310. As news broke that Muhammad would not compete on December 7th in Las Vegas, questions arose about Rakhmonov’s fate. Would he remain on the card in search of a challenger? With UFC Fight Night a week later featuring Garry and Buckley, the chances of Rakhmonov entering the octagon in a potential interim title fight have all but dissipated.
The decision to match Garry against Buckley, both rising stars in the welterweight division, underscores the UFC’s commitment to showcasing fresh talent rather than hastily assigning interim titles. Although fans may yearn to see Garry (15-0) face off against Rakhmonov, the organization seems intent on prolonging that encounter, potentially for strategic reasons concerning title defenses and future matchmaking.
Ian Machado Garry, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland, is making waves as the current No. 7 welterweight, bringing with him an unblemished record of 15 wins. His technical striking, coupled with a strong ground game, was on display in his last outing, where he earned a unanimous decision against fellow fighter Michael “Venom” Page at UFC 303. Garry’s ambition to challenge Rakhmonov reveals his competitive spirit; however, the UFC’s decision may either be a tactical move or a mere delay of what many fans want to see.
On the other side of the octagon, Joaquin Buckley has proven himself as a formidable opponent by clinching the No. 9 rank in the welterweight standings. Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, Buckley has amassed an impressive five-fight winning streak since his return to the 170-pound class earlier this year. His latest highlight was a knockout victory over the seasoned Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson at UFC 307, a fight that solidified his place in the welterweight discussion and showcased his knockout power. Buckley’s resilience and striking prowess present a unique challenge for Garry.
The December 14th fight is not just another match; it serves as a crucial litmus test for both Garry and Buckley. A victory could potentially propel the winner closer to a title shot, particularly in a division yearning for fresh narratives and challengers. The bout also represents a form of consolidation within the welterweight ranks, as fighters are evaluating their position in light of Muhammad’s absence.
As the curtain falls on the UFC’s calendar year, the Garry-Buckley showdown stands to be a defining moment not only for the fighters involved but for the welterweight division as a whole. With anticipation high and stakes higher, this event is set to deliver a thrilling conclusion to 2023.