Joaquin Buckley earned his biggest win to date at UFC 307 as he stopped Stephen Thompson in dramatic fashion in the third round.
"New Mansa" extended his winning streak in the welterweight division to five after becoming the second man to finish "Wonderboy" with strikes in the UFC.
After many in the community had Buckley down two rounds following a vintage performance from Thompson — only one judge agreed, with the others having it 19-19 and 20-18 Buckley entering the final frame — the 30-year-old threw everything he had into a big leaping right hand that landed clean against the fence, ending the fight instantly.
In his post-fight interview, Buckley called to face former champion Kamaru Usman, who has been out of action since his late-notice fight with Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294 last October.
Buckley Stops Thompson In Display Of Explosive Power At UFC 307
Buckley was able to turn the tide of the fight with one big shot. Now, he will likely compete in a big matchup toward the top of the ladder next time out amid his win streak at 170 pounds.
Check out the highlight reel finish below, as Buckley teed up the main card in Salt Lake City perfectly.