This Saturday, December 14, 2024, the UFC returns to the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida, for a thrilling fight card headlined by a welterweight bout between former interim champion Colby Covington and rising star Joaquin Buckley. This event marks Covington’s return after a year-long hiatus following his title challenge against Leon Edwards at UFC 296, where he fell short. Known for his relentless pressure and grappling skills, Covington holds an impressive record of 16-1 in non-title fights, making him one of the toughest competitors in the welterweight division.
Buckley, on the other hand, is coming off a string of impressive performances that have established him as one of the hottest fighters in the division. His striking power and ability to finish fights will pose a significant challenge to Covington. As Buckley stated, “I’m ready to show that I belong at the top of this division.” This matchup promises to deliver fireworks as both fighters look to solidify their standings in a competitive weight class.
The co-main event features veteran featherweights Cub Swanson and Billy Quarantillo, both known for their exciting fighting styles. Swanson aims to bounce back after a split decision loss earlier this year, while Quarantillo seeks to break his alternating win-loss streak. With both fighters eager to engage in a striking battle, fans can expect an action-packed showdown.
Other notable fights on the card include Manel Kape vs. Bruno Silva in the flyweight division and Michael Johnson facing Ottman Azaitar in lightweight action. As the UFC closes out its 2024 campaign, UFC Tampa promises an unforgettable night of fights that fans won’t want to miss.
UFC Tampa should be an exciting night of fights with that said, let’s take a look at the odds, best bets, and props for this event.
The Best Sports Betting Sites for UFC Tampa
How to Watch UFC Tampa: Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley
- 🥊 UFC Tampa: Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley
- 📅 Date: Saturday, December 14, 2023
- 🕙 Time: 7:00 pm ET
- 🏟 Location: Amelie Arena | Tampa, FL
- 📺 TV Channel: ESPN+
- 📊 UFC Stats: Covington 17-4 | Buckley 20-6
- 🎲 UFC Odds: Covington (+235) | Buckley (-290)
UFC Tampa Best Bets & Props
Josefine Knutsson by Decision (-175)
Josefine Knutsson is poised to defeat Piera Rodriguez by decision in their upcoming bout. With an undefeated record of 8-0, Knutsson has consistently demonstrated her superior striking and grappling skills, making her a formidable opponent in the octagon. Her background as a Muay Thai champion equips her with powerful striking and effective combinations, allowing her to control the pace of the fight.
Knutsson’s ability to maintain high output and land significant strikes will likely sway the judges in her favor. As she stated, “I know I can do better,” reflecting her commitment to improvement and performance. This determination, combined with her tactical approach, will enable her to outpoint Rodriguez over three rounds, securing a unanimous decision victory.
Adrian Yanez (+180)
Adrian Yanez is set to face Daniel Marcos at UFC Tampa, and the fight is expected to showcase Yanez’s striking prowess and tactical acumen. With a record of 17-5, Yanez has proven himself as a formidable striker, landing an impressive 6.51 significant strikes per minute at a 41% accuracy rate. His ability to maintain pressure and control the distance will be crucial against Marcos, who has yet to face an opponent of Yanez’s caliber.
Yanez’s recent victory via TKO against Vinicius Salvador highlights his knockout power and ability to finish fights early. He stated, “I’m going to take his goose egg,” emphasizing his determination to hand Marcos his first loss. Expect Yanez to utilize his superior boxing skills and head movement to evade Marcos’ attacks while landing clean counters. By maintaining a high output and effectively mixing in leg kicks, Yanez will likely outpoint Marcos over three rounds, securing a unanimous decision victory.
Billy Quarantillo (-155)
Billy Quarantillo is set to face Cub Swanson at UFC Tampa, and he is well-positioned to secure a victory through his relentless pressure and superior cardio. Quarantillo, known for landing an impressive 7.36 significant strikes per minute with a striking accuracy of 56%, will likely overwhelm Swanson with volume and pace. Swanson, while experienced, has shown vulnerability against high-pressure fighters, often absorbing more strikes than he lands.
Quarantillo’s strategy will involve maintaining a high output and pushing the action, which could tire the 41-year-old Swanson as the fight progresses. Quarantillo himself noted, “I’m ready for a war,” indicating his mindset to engage actively throughout the bout. Additionally, Quarantillo’s grappling skills can come into play if needed, allowing him to mix in takedowns and control time on the ground. Expect Quarantillo to outwork Swanson over three rounds, earning a unanimous decision victory by showcasing his striking volume and relentless energy.
