Joaquin Buckley is embracing the challenge of fighting on enemy territory as he prepares to face Canadian fan favorite Mike Malott in the main event of UFC Fight Night 291.
Buckley is scheduled to take on Malott at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, this Saturday night. With Malott enjoying strong support from the home crowd, “New Mansa” will have to overcome both a rising opponent and a potentially hostile atmosphere as he looks to snap his two-fight losing streak.
Speaking with UFC News today, Buckley expressed his excitement about competing in Canada, insisting that he expects the fans to appreciate a competitive fight rather than simply root against him.
“I'm excited. Yeah, I'm excited for this one, though, as well, at the Rogers Stadium. I don't know how many people (it) holds, but I've been getting a lot of love again, right here in Canada,” Buckley said.
The American acknowledged that Canadian fans will naturally want to see Malott represent his country successfully. However, he believes the crowd's pride in their hometown favorite will not prevent them from appreciating an entertaining matchup.
“And I truly believe that once I go out there, it's not going to be like a ‘hate’ type of thing. They just want to…it's a pride in the person that holds their flag, you know? So with that being said, I truly believe that they just want to see a good fight, you know?”
Buckley also challenged Malott to bring the same aggressive style that has made him a fan favorite. The American believes facing an opponent capable of delivering exciting moments could bring out his best performance.
“That's one thing that I just wish that Malott brings because I see all the fights that he had, all the highlights, all the finishes. Bring that, bro, because that's the type of fire that I need to make sure that I ignite the bomb that's in me, you know? So yeah, I just can't wait.”
Buckley Focused on His Own Game Plan
While Buckley is confident in his abilities, he also recognizes that his skill set could influence how Malott approaches the fight. The welterweight contender believes his versatility can force opponents to reconsider their strategies, although he is careful not to make assumptions before stepping into the Octagon.
“I knew it was a good fight for me. But at the same time, I just understood that my skill sets and the things that I can do can change a fighter's idea of how they want to fight me,” Buckley explained.
Despite that confidence, Buckley stressed the importance of remaining focused on the task immediately in front of him rather than getting caught up in potential scenarios.
“But we'll see, right? I can't make that adjustment or I can't make that assumption, and I can't think too far ahead. I just gotta be in the moment, and I just gotta do what I do best.”
