UFC on ESPN 63: Updates, predictions and what to watch for!

Image source: Instagram screen (December 2024)

This article in a nutshell:

• UFC on ESPN 63: Covington vs. Buckley promises an action-packed night on December 14, 2024, headlined by Colby Covington's relentless wrestling against Joaquin Buckley's explosive striking. With a strong main card and intriguing prelims, fans can expect thrilling matchups and potential Fight of the Night contenders.

UFC on ESPN 63: Covington vs. Buckley is set to deliver an electrifying night of mixed martial arts action on December 14, 2024, at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. The event features a compelling lineup of fights, headlined by a welterweight showdown between Colby Covington and Joaquin Buckley.

Main event: Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley

In the main event, former interim welterweight champion Colby "Chaos" Covington (17-4-0) faces the dynamic striker Joaquin "New Mansa" Buckley (20-6-0).

Covington is renowned for his relentless pressure and exceptional wrestling, while Buckley has gained attention for his explosive knockout power. This clash of styles promises a captivating battle, with Covington aiming to utilize his grappling expertise against Buckley's striking arsenal.

Co-main event and main card highlights

The co-main event features veteran featherweight Cub Swanson (29-14-0) taking on Billy Quarantillo (18-6-0), in a bout that pits experience against youthful vigor. Additionally, flyweights Manel Kape (19-7-0) and Bruno Silva (14-5-2) are set to collide, with both fighters looking to make a statement in the division.

Other notable matchups include light heavyweights Dustin Jacoby (20-8-1) versus Vitor Petrino (11-1-0), and an intriguing bantamweight contest between the undefeated Daniel Marcos (16-0-0) and Adrian Yanez (17-5-0).

Preliminary card

The preliminary card offers a series of compelling bouts, featuring fighters such as Ottman Azaitar, Michael Johnson, Joel Alvarez, and Drakkar Klose, each aiming to climb the ranks in their respective divisions.

Event details

• Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024

• Location: Amalie Arena, Tampa, Florida

• Main Card Start Time: 10 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and ESPN+

• Preliminary Card Start Time: 7 p.m. ET on ESPNews and ESPN+

Predictions and What to Watch For

• Covington's Strategy: Expect Covington to implement his high-pressure wrestling to neutralize Buckley's striking, aiming to control the fight on the ground.

  
  

• Buckley's Approach: Buckley will likely seek to keep the fight standing, utilizing his speed and knockout power to challenge Covington's defense.

  
  

• Co-Main Event Dynamics: Swanson's experience versus Quarantillo's aggression could result in a Fight of the Night contender, with both athletes known for their entertaining styles.

As fight night approaches, fans can anticipate a series of thrilling matchups that showcase a blend of veteran prowess and emerging talent. Stay tuned for live updates and comprehensive coverage of UFC on ESPN 63: Covington vs. Buckley.

Other articles to read:

• Colby Covington's fighting style: A Deep Dive (click now to read)

• Evolution of Buckley: From knockout sensation to main event contender (click now to read)

• Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley: Keys to victory for both fighters (click now to read)