Joaquin Buckley Challenges Sean Brady, “If Usman Doesn’t Want the Smoke”

In the wake of Sean Brady’s stunning upset victory over Leon Edwards at UFC London, welterweight contender Joaquin Buckley has wasted no time in throwing his hat into the ring for a potential clash with the newly minted top contender. Buckley, riding high on a six-fight win streak, took to social media to congratulate Brady on his performance while simultaneously issuing a challenge that has set the MMA world abuzz.

“Congrats, Sean. If Usman doesn’t want the smoke, what do you think about Brady vs. Buck?” Buckley posted, referencing his longstanding desire to face former champion Kamaru Usman while opening the door to a showdown with Brady.

 

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The Welterweight Division’s New Landscape

Brady’s dominant performance against Edwards, which culminated in a fourth-round submission victory, has dramatically reshuffled the welterweight rankings. With Brady likely to ascend to the number one contender spot, the division finds itself in a state of flux, presenting exciting opportunities for fighters like Buckley to stake their claim for a title shot.

Buckley, known as “New Mansa,” has been on a tear since moving up to welterweight in 2023. His impressive run includes victories over high-profile opponents such as Vicente Luque, Stephen Thompson, and most recently, a TKO win over Colby Covington in December 2024. This string of performances has positioned Buckley as a serious threat in the division, currently ranked sixth in the official UFC rankings.

A Potential Number One Contender Bout

The prospect of a Buckley vs. Brady matchup is tantalizing for MMA fans and analysts alike. Both fighters are known for their well-rounded skill sets and finishing abilities. Brady’s grappling prowess was on full display against Edwards, while Buckley’s knockout power has become the stuff of legend, particularly after his viral spinning back kick KO of Impa Kasanganay in 2020.

A bout between these two rising stars could very well determine the next challenger for the welterweight title. With current champion Belal Muhammad set to defend his belt against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 in May, the timing could align perfectly for Buckley and Brady to face off in a number one contender fight.

The Usman Factor

Buckley’s callout is particularly intriguing given his mention of Kamaru Usman. The former champion’s future in the division remains uncertain, with speculation about potential retirement or a move up to middleweight circulating in MMA circles. Buckley’s willingness to pivot from a desired matchup with Usman to a fight with Brady demonstrates his hunger to climb the ranks and secure a title shot.

The welterweight division has long been one of the UFC’s most competitive and exciting weight classes, and the emergence of fighters like Buckley and Brady only adds to its allure. As the dust settles from UFC London, all eyes will be on the UFC’s matchmakers to see if they’ll grant Buckley his wish and set up what could be an explosive encounter with Brady.

With both fighters in their prime and showcasing impressive form, a Buckley vs. Brady matchup has all the ingredients to be a fan-favorite and a potential fight of the year candidate. As the welterweight title picture continues to evolve, this potential clash could play a crucial role in shaping the division’s future and determining who gets the next shot at UFC gold.