As the UFC world anticipates the seismic clash between Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena (JDM) for the UFC welterweight title, Joaquin “New Mansa” Buckley has injected himself directly into the narrative, issuing a fiery warning: “If Makhachev wins, he’ll retire before ever facing me.”

Buckley’s confidence is sky-high as he prepares to face former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman in the main event of UFC Atlanta. He’s not only gunning for victory—he’s aiming for legacy. And that includes a head-on collision with whoever walks out as the 170-pound champion after Makhachev vs. JDM.

From Lightweight King to Welterweight Contender: Makhachev’s Leap of Faith

Islam Makhachev, the long-reigning lightweight champion, has finally decided to leave the 155-pound division behind in pursuit of greater challenges. His move to welterweight has been a topic of conversation for years, often teased by coach Khabib Nurmagomedov and others in the Dagestani circle. Now, it’s becoming reality as Makhachev eyes UFC gold in a second division.

But stepping into a shark tank like the welterweight division, especially with knockout machines like Buckley circling, may prove to be more dangerous than anticipated.

“He’s not gonna out-wrestle me. He’s not gonna submit me. And he’s definitely not gonna stand on the feet with me,” Buckley said, dismissing Makhachev’s traditional weapons. “If he wins the belt, he’ll retire. He’ll run.”

Buckley Is on a Mission: “There Is No Debate” If He Beats Usman

If Joaquin Buckley defeats Kamaru Usman, there will be no argument—he deserves the next title shot.

With a six-fight win streak, including four devastating knockouts, Buckley (21-6) has stormed his way to No. 7 in the UFC welterweight rankings. His dynamic, highlight-reel striking has made him one of the most exciting fighters in the sport.

“Once I beat Kamaru Usman, there is no debate, there is no back-and-forth, there is no argument—we up next,” Buckley declared.

The fight with Usman could become the proving ground that launches Buckley to superstardom. A victory over the former pound-for-pound king would solidify him as the most dangerous contender in the division—possibly even the toughest challenge Islam Makhachev has ever faced.

Makhachev vs. JDM: A Champion’s Dream or a Setup for a Nightmare?

The UFC has yet to officially confirm the bout between Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena, but all signs point to that title fight becoming a reality. JDM, the slick Australian striker with crisp boxing and impressive finishes, presents a stylistic clash with Makhachev.

Still, many insiders believe that Makhachev’s suffocating wrestling and grappling will allow him to neutralize JDM’s offensive threats and walk away with another belt.

But Buckley disagrees. He doesn’t think the fight is a blockbuster.

“The JDM fight and Islam fight is not a massive fight to make. I truly believe Islam gotta sit back and just wait for me to get my title,” he argued.

According to Buckley, the real money fight, the real war, is between himself and Islam.

Why Buckley Is Makhachev’s Worst Nightmare at 170

Joaquin Buckley is confident he possesses the antidote to everything Islam Makhachev brings to the Octagon.

While Makhachev thrives on control, pressure, and submission threats, Buckley points to his 100% takedown defense in recent fights, relentless power, and explosive movement as reasons why the Dagestani star would be wise to avoid him.

“He’s definitely not gonna stand on the feet with me,” Buckley reiterated. “And he knows that. That’s why if he wins, he’s gone. He’ll take the belt and dip.”

This kind of trash talk is new territory for Makhachev, who usually avoids verbal wars. But in the welterweight division, where personalities are loud and fights are violent, he might have no choice but to respond soon.

The Buckley vs. Garry Feud: ‘I Don’t Speak Cuckanese’

While Buckley eyes Makhachev, another storyline is boiling in the background: his rivalry with Ian Garry.

Buckley and Garry have traded verbal jabs in recent months, with the American most recently mocking Garry’s accent and background, saying, “I don’t speak Cuckanese.”

The No. 6-ranked Garry remains a top name in the division, and a fight between him and Buckley would surely create fireworks. However, Buckley seems fully focused on becoming UFC champion before worrying about any side feuds.

A Potential Collision Course at UFC 306?

If Buckley beats Usman in Atlanta, and Makhachev defeats JDM, UFC 306 or a year-end PPV card could become the perfect stage for this high-stakes showdown.

The stakes would be massive:

• Makhachev trying to become a two-division champion and cap off his legendary career.

• Buckley hungry to claim his first UFC title and dethrone one of the most dominant fighters in modern MMA.

It would be a collision of styles, personalities, and destinies.

Will Makhachev Run, Retire, or Rise?

Makhachev’s future is now being questioned not only by fans but also by his potential rivals.

Joaquin Buckley is not just another contender—he represents a new wave of UFC welterweights who bring in a mix of charisma, athleticism, and highlight-reel finishes. And according to him, Islam Makhachev won’t survive that wave.

“He knows he’s not a natural 170 fighter,” Buckley claimed. “He’ll win and run before he ever sees me inside that cage.”

Time will tell whether Makhachev is just making a quick championship raid or if he’s in for a long reign. Either way, Joaquin Buckley is waiting, fists clenched, chin tucked, and ready to launch the most dangerous fight of Islam’s life.

Final Thoughts: The Stakes Have Never Been Higher

If Buckley vs. Makhachev eventually happens, it won’t just be a title fight—it will be a battle for legitimacy, toughness, and legacy.

• Can Makhachev handle the welterweight power and survive the chaos?

• Can Buckley truly stop a fighter who’s dominated every opponent with tactical brilliance?

As the fight game continues to evolve, stories like these elevate MMA beyond sport and into the realm of pure drama.