Preview: UFC on ABC 1 ‘Holloway vs. Kattar’

Middleweights

NR | Joaquin Buckley (12-3, 2-1 UFC) vs. NR | Alessio Di Chirico (12-5, 3-5 UFC)

ODDS: Buckley (-270), Di Chirico (+230)

Buckley showed some obvious potential leading up to his late-notice UFC debut in August. A powerful athlete, Buckley still needed to develop a dedicated approach but showed a willingness to try and make things work, and he scored finishes more often than not. Kevin Holland was a tough ask for that UFC debut, and so Buckley was soon in the same category as a lot of recent signings: obviously talented but in danger of stagnating with the wrong matchmaking on such a loaded roster. However, Buckley soon made his own break, and that all went out the window. His October win over Impa Kasanganay came via a spinning back kick that ranks among the best knockouts in the UFC history, and Buckley has become a “made man” in the process. Jordan Wright was the perfect opponent for a fun showcase bout in November, and Buckley now gets another opportunity to show his wares against Di Chirico. Italy’s Di Chirico came into the UFC as an athlete with some potential a few years ago, but he has not made any particularly huge developments. While he is well-rounded and dangerous in particular moments, he has become too patient for his own good and more than willing to give away rounds on pace and volume. Di Chirico’s ability to hit a hard counter and his historical durability make this interesting, but one of the most notable things about Buckley as a prospect is his ability to throw power for three rounds and never seem to slow down. As a result, it is hard to see Di Chirico outlasting Buckley as a clear way to victory. Instead, Buckley should be able to fire at will against Di Chirico, and while the Italian might be too durable to catch for another highlight-reel knockout, this looks like another clear win. The pick is Buckley via decision.

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