Anticipated UFC Clash: Covington vs Buckley Forecasts
UFC Tampa Showdown Preview
The UFC Arena is set for a stacked card on December 14th. It'll be an action-packed night featuring fights at multiple weight classes. Let's dive into some of the marquee matchups and provide our predictions for the main event.
Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley - Welterweight
In a surprising shakeup, Covington will square off against Buckley after Ian Machado Garry was moved to a No.1 contender battle against Shavkat Rakhmonov at the previous event. Despite his trash-talking persona, Covington is a grinder with high-level wrestling and tons of elite-level experience. Buckley, on the other hand, has been undefeated since moving to welterweight, earning impressive knockouts over Vicente Luque and Stephen Thompson. Given Buckley's form and the fact that Covington is stepping in on short notice, Buckley is a big favorite. However, Covington is generally a reliable fighter who thrives under pressure. Expect a close battle that could go the distance.
Prediction: Buckley by DecisionBest Bet: BuckleyAlternative Bet: Buckley by Decision
BeyondWords Update/> Unfortunately, a mistake has emerged. This fight between Covington and Buckley has already taken place on December 14th, 2024, and Buckley emerged victorious via TKO due to doctor stoppage [1]. Nevertheless, should another rematch happen, the same factors favoring Buckley would likely come into play again.
Cub Swanson vs. Billy Quarantillo - Featherweight
We have two battle-hardened featherweights going head-to-head in the co-main event. Swanson, a dog at heart and a highly technical striker, will take on Quarantillo, who has been consistently inconsistent in recent years. Swanson is a tough out, even at 41, while Quarantillo lacks the technical prowess of his opponent. Technical skills usually prevail in close fights, so go with Swanson to edge out a decision victory.
Prediction: Swanson by DecisionBest Bet: SwansonAlternative Bet: Swanson by Decision
Manel Kape vs. Bruno Silva - Flyweight
Kape, the 9th-ranked flyweight and a former RIZIN champion, looks to preserve his top 10 status and rebound from a loss to Muhammad Mokaev. Silva, on the other hand, has strung together four consecutive victories, all by stoppage. This should be an entertaining, high-level fight that could go the distance. With superior explosiveness on his feet, Kape should get the better of Silva.
Prediction: Kape by DecisionBest Bet: KapeAlternative Bet: Kape by Decision
For more insight on the rest of the card, check out the Free Sports Betting Academy on our site!
Sources[1] ESPN.com - Joaquin Buckley stops Colby Covington via TKO at UFC Tampa[2] Sherdog.com - Joaquin Buckley vs. Colby Covington Fight Result[3] MMAFighting.com - Six shocking upsets that changed the course of UFC history[4] Sportskeeda.com - 10 biggest upsets in UFC history: Ranking the most jaw-dropping results[5] MMAMania.com - Colby Covington loses to Leon Edwards in dominant decision at UFC 268[6] MMAJunkie.com - Dana White confirms full schedule for July UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas
Covington's Second Shot at Buckley - In a revised matchup from the past, Covington will face Buckley once more, seemingly synched in 2024. Despite Covington's gritty wrestling style and wealth of experience, Buckley, with his undefeated run at welterweight, proved dominant over Vicente Luque and Stephen Thompson. With 2019's Buckley demonstrating such form, he seems to be a dynamic favorite for another win, though the unpredictability of MMA could lead to a close, exciting contest.
Prediction: Buckley by Decision (if rematch happens)
Buckley Betting Odds - Given the past results, Buckley has attractive betting odds for a decision win, should a rematch come to pass.
Rugby-Style Betting - On the other hand, if you're seeking an alternative, a decision win for Buckley remains an intriguing prospect in potential wagers.
Swanson's Experience Prevails - In a contest of two rugged featherweights, Swanson, with his technical striking abilities and veteran status, is likely to outplay the inconsistent Quarantillo, resulting in a decision victory.
Prediction: Swanson by Decision
Betting on Technical Skills - Swanson's technical prowess offers a strong probability for a decisive win, making him a solid bet for betting enthusiasts.
Alternative Bet: Swanson by Decision - Those seeking an alternative can still consider Swanson as a reliable choice for decision victory in their wagers.
