UFC Fight Night – Kamaru Usman vs Joaquin Buckley: Preview & Betting Tips

Despite his age, ”The Nigerian Nightmare” still has a very good skill set and remains dangerous in all phases of the fight game. His physicality and wrestling base along with his experience in five-round fights could give Buckley plenty to think about. 

Stylistically, this is a real test. Buckley is a very dynamic and explosive fighter but not the most technical. Against someone as seasoned and durable as Usman, can he maintain his composure and avoid over-committing on the feet?

As you’d expect, Usman comes into this fight on Saturday night with people questioning how long he has left in the sport. He’s 38, coming off of almost a two-year layoff, and it is known that he has bad knees. This is something that a much fresher and more athletic fighter like Buckley can look to test.

Usman vs Buckley: Prediction & Betting Tips

This is the classic matchup of youth and momentum vs experience and grit. The American is the more explosive athlete and has real knockout power, but Usman’s championship pedigree, grappling advantage, and big-fight experience cannot be dismissed. It’s also worth noting he is actually the superior fighter in terms of striking accuracy, which is where Buckley’s path to victory is.

If Buckley wins, it’ll likely be early through a heavy blitz and volume that overwhelms an older and perhaps rusty Usman. If Usman wins, expect a grinding, wrestling-heavy decision where he drags Buckley into deep waters.Joaquin Buckley has made massive strides over the last few years but Usman is a difficult style matchup.

I expect the former champ to use his wrestling, clinch control against the cage and composure to shut down Buckley’s chaos and remind fans he’s not done yet, even though he is creeping closer and closer to the age of 40.

My pick for this one is Kamaru Usman moneyline at odds of 3.25 (Bet 365). I understand the age discrepancy, but even though Usman is coming off of a defeat to Chimaev, I actually thought he looked decent up a weight class. But this time, Usman will be back at his natural weight and at odds over 2/1, it’s quite hard to not like that price.