The UFC returns to action with a year ending blockbuster event on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. With 13 electrifying MMA bouts scheduled, UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley promises unforgettable action, featuring some of the biggest names in the sport.
Broadcast live on ESPN+, this event will showcase thrilling matchups across multiple weight classes, culminating in a highly anticipated Welterweight main event between the brash Colby Covington and the explosive Joaquin Buckley.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of every fight on the card:
Main Card
Main Event: Welterweight Bout - Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley
The headline fight pits former interim champion Colby Covington against knockout artist Joaquin Buckley. Covington’s relentless wrestling and cardio are legendary, while Buckley’s explosive striking and highlight-reel finishes make him a dangerous opponent. This clash of styles is sure to deliver fireworks as Covington looks to cement his dominance, and Buckley aims to shock the world.
Co-Main Event: Featherweight Bout - Cub Swanson vs. Billy Quarantillo
Fan favorite Cub Swanson faces rising star Billy Quarantillo in a high-stakes Featherweight bout. Swanson’s experience and technical striking will be tested against Quarantillo’s pressure and high-volume attacks. Expect a battle of wills between the seasoned veteran and the hungry contender.
Flyweight Bout - Manel Kape vs. Bruno Silva
Two dynamic Flyweights, Manel Kape and Bruno Silva, clash in what promises to be a fast-paced and action-packed fight. Kape’s unpredictable striking will meet Silva’s well-rounded skills, making this a must-watch matchup.
Light Heavyweight Bout - Dustin Jacoby vs. Vitor Petrino
Dustin Jacoby, known for his kickboxing pedigree, takes on heavy-hitting prospect Vitor Petrino. This Light Heavyweight showdown is expected to be a striking masterclass, with both fighters aiming to make a statement.
Bantamweight Bout - Daniel Marcos vs. Adrian Yanez
Rising contender Daniel Marcos faces the sharp boxing skills of Adrian Yanez. Both fighters bring aggressive styles to the Octagon, promising a thrilling exchange in the Bantamweight division.
Light Heavyweight Bout - Navajo Stirling vs. Tuco Tokkos
Navajo Stirling squares off against Tuco Tokkos in a clash of rising Light Heavyweight talents. This bout is a sleeper fight of the night contender, with both fighters showcasing knockout power and grappling acumen.
Preliminary Card
Lightweight Bout - Michael Johnson vs. Ottman Azaitar
Veteran Michael Johnson returns to face the hard-hitting Ottman Azaitar. Johnson’s experience and Azaitar’s power create an intriguing stylistic matchup that could end in dramatic fashion.
Lightweight Bout - Drakkar Klose vs. Joel Alvarez
Drakkar Klose takes on submission specialist Joel Alvarez in a Lightweight bout. Klose’s physicality will be tested against Alvarez’s lanky frame and dangerous ground game.
Featherweight Bout - Sean Woodson vs. Fernando Padilla
Sean Woodson’s unique striking style meets the grappling-heavy attack of Fernando Padilla in a Featherweight bout. Both fighters are looking to climb the rankings, making this a critical matchup.
Bantamweight Bout - Miles Johns vs. Felipe Lima
Miles Johns faces newcomer Felipe Lima in a Bantamweight clash. Johns’ knockout power and Lima’s all-around game will make this a fascinating fight.
Flyweight Bout - Miranda Maverick vs. Jamey-Lyn Horth
In the Women’s Flyweight division, Miranda Maverick takes on the tough Jamey-Lyn Horth. Maverick’s grappling prowess will be tested against Horth’s striking and durability.
Bantamweight Bout - Davey Grant vs. Ramon Taveras
Action fighter Davey Grant meets rising star Ramon Taveras in a Bantamweight battle. Expect fireworks as Grant’s aggressive style clashes with Taveras’ calculated approach.
Strawweight Bout - Piera Rodriguez vs. Josefine Knutsson
The preliminary card opens with a Strawweight bout between Piera Rodriguez and Josefine Knutsson. Both fighters bring exciting styles, with Rodriguez known for her striking and Knutsson for her grappling.
UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley is packed with thrilling matchups, from rising stars to seasoned veterans. The mix of styles and divisions ensures a night of unforgettable action for fight fans. With Covington and Buckley leading the charge, this event is poised to deliver jaw-dropping moments and high-octane excitement.
Catch all the action live on ESPN+ from the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida, on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to witness MMA history in the making!
Stay tuned for more updates, fighter interviews, and in-depth analysis leading up to the event.