Expert prediction
UFC Tampa: Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley Prediction, Odds, and Picks (December 14)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley is the bout that will headline the UFC Tampa fight card on December 14. Our prediction is that the fight will deliver as both fighters are super-fun to watch do their thing in the Octagon.
Judging by the Covington vs. Buckley odds, “New Mansa” is more likely to win. In this betting preview, we’ll explain why bookies might be wrong on this and why “Chaos” is our pick.
Covington vs. Buckley Odds
| Fighter | Odds |
|---|---|
| Colby Covington | +225 |
| Joaquin Buckley | -275 |
When, Where, and How to Watch?
- Place: Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida
- Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
- Time: 10:00 p.m. ET
- How to Watch: PPV
Covington vs. Buckley Fight Preview
Why do Covington vs. Buckley odds favor “New Mansa?” Because he’s had a full camp to prepare for UFC Tampa. However, his preparation was focused on a battle with Shavkat Rakhmonov, who’s famous for his striking.
Now, he’s supposed to fight a guy whose wrestling skills are at a higher level than any fighter Buckley’s ever faced. “Chaos” is a former college wrestling champ who’s landing just under 4.0 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Colby Covington’s record is 17-4, with each of his four losses happening in fights for the UFC Welterweight title. He’s suffered just one loss by a knockout (a TKO, to be precise), but UFC Tampa odds suggest another one might happen in Colby Covington’s next fight.
This is because “New Mansa” is a hell of a striker, famous for breathtaking knockouts. There are plenty of Joaquin Buckley knockout videos out there, with probably the most impressive being the one showing him putting Impa Kasanganay to sleep with a spinning back kick.
Joaquin Buckley highlights are impressive, but so are Colby Covington’s. Sure, he doesn’t have too many finishes in his portfolio (8 out of 17), but this guy knows how to fight. In fact, we do think he’s a much better fighter than Buckley.
Does this mean we’re backing him to win at UFC Tampa?
Covington vs. Buckley Prediction
Buckley might be famous for his knockouts, but he just hasn’t fought such a tough opponent as Covington. We think there’s no chance he can KO Covington the same way he KO-ed Kasanganay.
In fact, we think the Covington vs. Buckley fight won’t even see a finish. Instead, our prediction is that it will go the distance. If this does happen, it’s likely that Covington will win by decision.
He’s used to fighting marathon fights, while this is going to be the first time Buckley is fighting a 5-rounder.
Free Pick:
- Colby Covington by Decision
MMA
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