In the dynamic world of mixed martial arts (MMA), one name is beginning to rise to the surface in light of recent shifts in the UFC welterweight landscape: Joaquin Buckley. Known for his unfiltered opinions and knockout power, Buckley is making a compelling case for himself as a potential opponent for the undefeated Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310. Originally, this high-stakes matchup was slated to feature UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad, but an unexpected toe injury has left fans speculating about the future of the bout. As the UFC scrambles to find a suitable replacement, Buckley is not shy about stepping into that spotlight.
The possibility of Buckley fighting Rakhmonov serves as an intriguing subplot to the main event narrative. With Muhammad’s withdrawal, the promotion is faced with the challenge of maintaining fan interest while ensuring the integrity of the welterweight division. Rumors are swirling about the creation of an interim title or potential matchups that could provide the excitement UFC fans crave. Current discussions frequently revolve around Ian Machado Garry, another rising star in the division. However, Buckley’s impassioned declarations challenge the prevailing narrative—what fans “really” want to see.
Buckley’s fervor is supported by noteworthy statistics. With an impressive record of 20-6 and 14 of those wins coming by way of knockout, he has established himself as a formidable force in the octagon. His recent ascent—marked by a five-fight winning streak since moving to welterweight—attests to his readiness and relentless pursuit of greatness. Buckley’s eagerness to pit his knockout proficiency against Rakhmonov’s impressive 18 finishes (10 submissions, 8 knockouts) hints at a clash that promises explosive action. “Me vs. Shavkat,” he insists, encapsulating his confidence and the potential for a fight that fans would find difficult to ignore.
“Hey UFC, this is the fight that y’all got to make,” Buckley boldly stated, aiming to ratchet up the urgency surrounding his callout. His determination reflects the mindset of a fighter intent on claiming the throne in his weight class. The mentality of taking decisive steps rather than waiting for opportunities to be handed out has become characteristic of many top fighters, and Buckley embodies this ethos. By publicly challenging his peers and calling out established veterans, including former champion Kamaru Usman, he is carving his niche and reinforcing his status as a viable contender.
With the UFC landscape continually evolving, Buckley’s potential inclusion in the picture only amplifies the excitement surrounding the welterweight division. Fans are left wondering: will the promotion hop on this opportunity to generate high-octane matchups? While not officially confirmed, the prospect of Buckley stepping into the octagon against Rakhmonov could prove to be a seminal moment in his career and a thrilling engagement for MMA enthusiasts. As the UFC navigates this pivotal juncture, one thing remains clear: the realm of combat sports thrives on such moments of unpredictability, and Buckley is positioning himself to seize the opportunity when it arises.