The top contenders in the UFC welterweight division are making things interesting as several fighters campaign for a shot at the title.
Most recently, Ian Machado Garry secured a unanimous decision victory over Carlos Prates in Kansas City, aiming to re-enter the title conversation after his previous defeat.
UFC President Dana White has reportedly given his approval for Machado Garry`s plan to potentially serve as the backup fighter for the welterweight title fight at UFC 315 in Montreal.
Despite Garry`s recent win and future plans, numerous other fighters are also positioned within striking distance of challenging the eventual champion crowned on May 10th.
Joaquin Buckley is set to face former champion Kamaru Usman in the main event of UFC Atlanta on June 14th, a fight that could further impact the divisional title picture.
Joaquin Buckley Criticizes Ian Machado Garry`s Safety-First Approach Against Carlos Prates
Among the leading welterweight contenders, Joaquin Buckley has arguably been the most outspoken critic of Ian Machado Garry.
The two fighters were originally scheduled to compete last December in Tampa, but the matchup was altered after Machado Garry was defeated by Shavkat Rakhmonov. Following that loss, Garry returned to action against Carlos Prates, securing a decision win after controlling the initial rounds.
`The Future` appeared to be in control for much of the bout, but Prates mounted a strong rally late in the fight, coming close to potentially stopping the Irishman and achieving a dramatic comeback.
While Machado Garry ultimately won with a strategic performance, the shaky moments near the end seemed to leave a negative impression on some, including Buckley, who was not impressed by the showing.
Buckley, who was present at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, shared his assessment of the main event during an interview with Inside Fighting.
“I think it was trash. I really think Ian Garry had the potential to really kind of put it on Prates but he tried to play it safe the whole time, tried to keep from getting knocked out. Obviously, man we’ve seen that Prates in that fifth round, he was trying to get to him and everything of that nature and he turned Ian Garry to the booty boy. My man trying to wrestle, my man trying to hold on for dear life but I feel like Ian Garry played himself. He really could have had a performance of the night type ending but you know, too scared.”
Joaquin Buckley Sends a Warning to Kamaru Usman Ahead of Official Fight
Despite other strong contenders in the mix, Ian Machado Garry has publicly stated his belief that he is next in line for a title shot.
Shavkat Rakhmonov, the only fighter to have beaten Garry, still appears to be the top contender. However, recent significant wins by fighters like Machado Garry and Sean Brady could bolster their cases while Rakhmonov is sidelined.
Now, Joaquin Buckley has an opportunity to significantly strengthen his own claim by defeating the returning Kamaru Usman in Atlanta, following the welterweight title bout in Montreal.
Buckley concluded his interview with a concise message directed at Usman, now that their fight on June 14th is officially confirmed.
“Get ready to go to sleep sleep.”
Rupert Hartwell