UFC Tampa is set to be an electrifying event, featuring top fighters like Joaquin Buckley and Colby Covington. As the anticipation builds, fighters share their thoughts on the upcoming bouts and their future aspirations in the octagon.
Key Takeaways
- Joaquin Buckley aims for a spectacular finish against Colby Covington to secure a title shot.
- Manel Kape expresses frustration over a controversial fight and calls for accountability from referees.
- Colby Covington reflects on his past struggles and aims to reclaim his status in the welterweight division.
Joaquin Buckley: Aiming for Knockout Glory
Joaquin Buckley, currently ranked No. 9 in the UFC Welterweight division, is preparing for his first main event against former interim champion Colby Covington. Buckley has been on a remarkable winning streak since moving to the 170-pound weight class, boasting five consecutive victories, including a notable knockout of Stephen Thompson.
In a recent media day, Buckley expressed his ambition to leapfrog Shavkat Rakhmonov in the title contender rankings. He stated, "I feel like I’m leapfrogging over Shavkat. I can’t just go out there and get my hand raised in a split decision. If I go out there and do what I know I can do — get the ‘Knockout of the Year’ — yeah, I’m going to take my belt."
Manel Kape: Controversy and Accountability
Flyweight fighter Manel Kape is also making headlines as he prepares to face Bruno Silva at UFC Tampa. Kape recently experienced a controversial split decision victory over Muhammad Mokaev, which he attributes to Mokaev’s "dirty" tactics during their fight. Kape believes that Mokaev’s actions led to his release from the UFC.
Kape did not hold back in his criticism of the officiating, stating, "The referee should have taken a point; he didn’t do his job. Mokaev got fired, and one of the other people that should have been fired was the referee." His comments highlight the ongoing discussions about referee accountability in mixed martial arts.
Colby Covington: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Colby Covington, a former interim champion, is returning to the octagon after a year-long hiatus following a disappointing performance against Leon Edwards. Covington opened up about his struggles, stating, "After I lost three shots at the undisputed title, it felt like the lowest of low. I lost and forgot who I was."
He emphasized the importance of mental growth and training, saying, "I had to train harder to become the No. 1 contender again because all I ever wanted was to be the undisputed champion."
Covington’s candid reflections provide a glimpse into the mental challenges fighters face in the competitive world of UFC.
Conclusion
As UFC Tampa approaches, the excitement among fighters and fans alike is palpable. With Buckley aiming for a knockout, Kape demanding accountability, and Covington seeking redemption, the event promises to deliver thrilling matchups and compelling narratives in the world of mixed martial arts.
Sources
- Rankings ‘Chaos’?! Joaquin Buckley Plans To Leapfrog Shavkat Rakhmonov With ‘Knockout Of The Year’ At UFC Tampa – MMAmania.com, MMAmania.com.
- Firing ‘dirty’ Muhammad Mokaev Not Enough For UFC Tampa’s Manel Kape, Who Also Wants ‘B—tch Referee’ Sent Packing – MMAmania.com, MMAmania.com.
- UFC Tampa’s Colby Covington Reveals He Was At ‘The Lowest Of Lows’ After Third Undisputed Title Fight: ‘I Forgot Who I Was’ – MMAmania.com, MMAmania.com.
