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As 2024 winds down, UFC fans are in for a final treat with a marquee main event set for December 14. Ian Machado Garry, the undefeated rising star, and Joaquin Buckley, an unstoppable force in the welterweight division, are scheduled to headline UFC Tampa at Amalie Arena. This matchup is not just another fight; it’s a showdown between two surging contenders on a relentless quest for the top.
Initially, both Garry and Buckley had eyes on an even bigger opportunity—stepping up against Shavkat Rakhmonov for the interim welterweight title at UFC 310 after Belal Muhammad withdrew due to a toe infection. However, UFC matchmakers had other plans. Instead of battling Rakhmonov, Garry, and Buckley are now set to face each other, bringing their high-stakes ambitions to center stage in Tampa.
Ian Machado Garry, known by fans as “The Future,” has been on an electrifying run in 2024. This will be his third appearance in the octagon this year. Garry secured a hard-fought split decision over Geoff Neal at UFC 298 in February and handed Michael “Venom” Page his first promotional loss at UFC 303 in June. Currently ranked No. 7 in the UFC Welterweight Rankings, Garry’s sights are set on climbing even higher with another victory.
Facing him is Joaquin “New Mansa” Buckley, who, like Garry, has been on an unstoppable streak since moving to welterweight. Ranked No. 9, Buckley has gone undefeated at 170 pounds, racking up five straight wins. His 2024 record alone is impressive, with stoppages over UFC veterans Stephen Thompson and Vicente Luque, and a unanimous decision victory against Nursulton Ruziboev. This showdown with Garry marks Buckley’s 15th UFC appearance, and he’s looking to cap off a remarkable year with a fourth win.
This main event pits two formidable finishers against each other, each with a unique arsenal and relentless drive. For Garry, it’s a chance to affirm his place among the top-tier fighters in the division. For Buckley, it’s an opportunity to keep his momentum going as he continues his welterweight journey. As fans prepare for this year-end clash, one thing is certain—UFC Tampa promises fireworks.
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