Joaquin “New Mansa” Buckley delivered a dominant performance at UFC, securing a third-round doctor stoppage victory over Colby Covington at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. The welterweight clash ended at 4:42 of Round 3, with Covington unable to continue due to a gruesome cut on his eyelid.
Buckley (21-6, 11-4 UFC) displayed superior striking and takedown defense, opening the cut with an uppercut in the first round and continuing to exploit it throughout. The cageside physician eventually intervened, warning that Covington (17-5, 12-5 UFC) risked “losing his eyelid” if the bout continued. This victory marks Buckley’s sixth consecutive win and further solidifies his status as a serious contender in the division.
Key Results from UFC
Main Card Highlights
- Featherweight Co-Main Event:
Cub Swanson def. Billy Quarantillo via TKO (Punches) at 1:36 of Round 3. Swanson hinted at retirement after a clinical display of power and technique. - Flyweight Showcase:
Manel Kape def. Bruno Silva via TKO (Body Kick and Punches) at 1:57 of Round 3, extending his record to five wins in his last six outings.
Other Main Card Results
- Light Heavyweight Feature:
Dustin Jacoby def. Vitor Petrino via KO (Right Cross) at 3:44 of Round 3. Jacoby rebounded impressively from two consecutive losses. - Bantamweight Thriller:
Daniel Marcos def. Adrian Yanez via Split Decision (30-27, 29-28, 28-29). Marcos improved his undefeated record to 17-0.
Preliminary Action
- Light Heavyweight Bout:
Navajo Stirling def. George Tokkos via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x3). Stirling’s striking and relentless pressure overwhelmed Tokkos.
Standout Performances
- Joaquin Buckley: With a ferocious striking clinic and relentless pressure, Buckley delivered one of the most gruesome finishes in recent memory.
- Manel Kape: Demonstrated elite athleticism and finishing ability, overcoming adversity to end Silva’s four-fight win streak.
- Cub Swanson: At 41, the veteran’s ability to adapt and finish fights remains remarkable.
This action-packed card reinforced why UFC remains the pinnacle of mixed martial arts, with thrilling finishes and unforgettable moments.
