As 2024 comes to an end, three fighters stand out for their incredible undefeated campaigns: Joaquin Buckley, Carlos Prates, and Charles Johnson. Each fighter notched a perfect 4-0 record, defeating elite opponents, climbing the rankings, and setting the stage for massive opportunities in 2025. Let’s dive into their remarkable years, highlighting the victories that defined them and what lies ahead.
The Year of Joaquin Buckley: A 4-0 Run That Shook the Welterweight Division
Joaquin “New Mansa” Buckley had a transformative year in 2024, evolving from an exciting middleweight brawler to a legitimate contender in the UFC’s welterweight division. Known for his explosive power and highlight-reel knockouts, Buckley faced a murderer’s row of opponents and emerged victorious every time. Let’s dive into each of his fights and what this year means for his future.
Fight #1: TKO Victory Over Vicente Luque (Mar 30, UFC Fight Night)
Result: TKO (Ground & Pound) · 3:17 · R2
Buckley made an emphatic statement in his move to welterweight by taking on Vicente Luque, one of the division’s most challenging fighters. From the outset, Buckley utilised his improved wrestling and relentless pace to keep Luque on the defensive. After securing a takedown in the second round, Buckley unleashed a barrage of ground-and-pound strikes that forced the referee to step in.
Takeaway: This fight showcased Buckley’s evolving skill set, particularly his wrestling and top control, which had previously been areas of improvement.
Fight #2: Unanimous Decision Over Nursulton Ruziboev (May 11, UFC Fight Night)
Result: Decision · Unanimous
In May, Buckley faced the highly experienced Nursulton Ruziboev, a dangerous fighter with over 40 professional fights. This bout was a strategic chess match, with Buckley displaying his fight IQ and improved cardio to nullify Ruziboev’s diverse skill set. While Buckley didn’t secure a finish, he outworked Ruziboev in all three rounds, using crisp striking combinations and takedown defence to earn a unanimous decision.
Takeaway: This fight proved Buckley could compete at a high level in a drawn-out battle, answering questions about his cardio and ability to deal with seasoned veterans.
Fight #3: TKO Victory Over Stephen Thompson (Oct 5, UFC 307: Pereira vs. Rountree)
Result: TKO (Right Hook) · 2:17 · R3
In one of the year’s most highly anticipated matchups, Buckley faced the ever-dangerous Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson, a striking savant. The first two rounds were competitive, with Thompson showcasing his trademark movement and kicks. However, Buckley’s relentless pressure and explosive power began to wear on Wonderboy. In the third round, Buckley landed a perfectly timed right hook that sent Thompson crashing to the canvas, earning a TKO victory.
Takeaway: This win highlighted Buckley’s ability to adapt against elite strikers and his devastating knockout power, even late in fights.
Fight #4: Doctor Stoppage Victory Over Colby Covington (Dec 14, UFC Fight Night)
Result: Doctor Stoppage (Cut Above Eye) · 4:42 · R3
Buckley closed out 2024 with a monumental win over former welterweight champion Colby Covington. Covington’s wrestling-heavy style tested Buckley early, but Buckley’s improved takedown defence and striking proved to be the difference. Throughout the fight, Buckley landed sharp counters, opening a deep cut above Covington’s eye. As the third round ended, the cage side doctor stopped the fight due to the severity of the cut, giving Buckley the victory.
Takeaway: This fight was a testament to Buckley’s grit, versatility, and ability to overcome one of the most relentless fighters in the division. A win over Covington is a career-defining moment for any fighter.
What’s Next for Joaquin Buckley in 2025?
Buckley’s 2024 run has cemented him as a top contender in the welterweight division. His wins over elite opponents like Stephen Thompson and Colby Covington, combined with his ability to adapt and evolve, have set him up for a massive year in 2025.
Potential Matchups in 2025:
- Title Shot: With such a dominant year, Buckley could be next in line for a title shot against the current welterweight champion.
- Top 5 Opponent: A matchup against a fighter like Gilbert Burns, Shavkat Rakhmonov, or Belal Muhammad could serve as a title eliminator.
- Superfights: Buckley’s exciting style makes him a fan favourite, opening the door for marquee matchups that could headline UFC events.
Why Buckley’s 2024 Was So Significant
Buckley’s 4-0 campaign wasn’t just about the wins—it was about who he beat and how he did it. He defeated elite strikers (Thompson), seasoned veterans (Ruziboev), and former champions (Covington), showcasing his evolution as a fighter. Moving down to welterweight has revitalized his career, allowing him to fully utilize his athleticism and explosiveness.
Looking Ahead
As we head into 2025, the sky’s the limit for Joaquin Buckley. Whether he’s fighting for the title or solidifying his spot as a top welterweight, one thing is certain: Buckley is no longer just a highlight-reel fighter—he’s a serious contender.
The Year of Carlos Prates: A Perfect 4-0 Run in 2024
Carlos Prates entered 2024 as a promising talent in the welterweight division, but by the end of the year, he had emerged as a legitimate contender. His 4-0 run featured clinical finishes against top competition, with each win highlighting his diverse skill set and lethal precision. Let’s break down Prates’ exceptional year fight by fight and analyze how this sets him up for a breakout in 2025.
Fight #1: TKO Victory Over Trevin Giles (Feb 10, UFC Fight Night)
Result: TKO (Straight Left) · 4:03 · R2
Prates kicked off 2024 with a statement win over the durable Trevin Giles. Prates showcased his crisp striking from the opening bell, using his jab and feints to create openings. In the second round, he landed a perfectly timed straight left hand that dropped Giles, following up with ground-and-pound for the finish. This fight demonstrated Prates’ ability to stay composed and accurately strike against a tricky opponent.
Fight #2: TKO Victory Over Charles Radtke (Jun 8, UFC Fight Night)
Result: TKO (Knee to the Body) · 4:47 · R1
Prates’ second fight of the year saw him face Charles Radtke, a rising prospect known for his grit. Prates wasted no time asserting his dominance, mixing in devastating body attacks with his sharp boxing. Late in the first round, he landed a brutal knee to the body that folded Radtke, securing a highlight-reel finish. This fight highlighted Prates’ killer instinct and his ability to target his opponents’ weaknesses.
Fight #3: TKO Victory Over Jingliang Li (Aug 17, UFC 305: Du Plessis vs. Adesanya)
Result: TKO (Left Hook) · 4:02 · R2
In his most high-profile fight of the year, Prates faced veteran contender Jingliang Li. The bout was a back-and-forth affair early, with both fighters landing significant strikes. However, Prates’ superior timing and power became evident in the second round when he landed a thunderous left hook that sent Jingliang crashing to the canvas. The finish solidified Prates as a true force in the division and demonstrated his ability to shine under the bright lights of a pay-per-view event.
Fight #4: TKO Victory Over Neil Magny (Nov 9, UFC Fight Night)
Result: TKO (Left Hook) · 4:50 · R1
Prates closed out his year with a stunning first-round TKO over Neil Magny, a fighter known for his toughness and resilience. Magny’s experience seemed to pose a challenge, but Prates quickly dismantled him, landing a devastating left hook just before the end of the first round. The finish showcased Prates’ ever-growing confidence and ability to take out even the most seasoned veterans with his precise striking.
A Perfect Year Sets the Stage for 2025
Carlos Prates’ 4-0 campaign in 2024 established him as one of the most dangerous finishers in the welterweight division. His ability to take out opponents with both body and head strikes and his composed yet aggressive style make him a nightmare matchup for anyone. Each win in 2024 brought a new layer to his game:
- Against Giles, he showed his precision.
- Against Radtke, he demonstrated his versatility and creativity.
- Against Jingliang, he proved he could shine in big moments.
- Against Magny, he showed he could dominate a durable veteran.
What’s Next for Carlos Prates?
Heading into 2025, Prates is undoubtedly on the verge of breaking into the top 10—or even the top 5—of the welterweight rankings. A matchup with a high-level opponent like Gilbert Burns, Vicente Luque, or Belal Muhammad could propel him directly into title contention. Given his exciting style and ability to finish fights, Prates is on a trajectory to become one of the division’s biggest stars.
2024 was the year Carlos Prates made his mark. If he continues this momentum, 2025 could see him challenging for the welterweight belt. Keep an eye on this Brazilian finisher—his journey is just getting started.
The Year of Charles Johnson: A Perfect 4-0 Run in 2024
Charles Johnson, a fighter known for his technical prowess and striking creativity, put together an outstanding 4-0 run in 2024. His ability to adapt to different opponents and showcase his durability, cardio, and precision elevated his profile in the UFC’s flyweight division. Each fight highlighted a different aspect of his skill set, solidifying him as a top contender.
Fight #1: Unanimous Decision Over Azat Maksum (Feb 3, UFC Fight Night)
Result: Decision · Unanimous
Charles Johnson kicked off the year by handing Azat Maksum, a 15-0 prospect, the first loss of his career. Maksum’s grappling-heavy style presented a significant challenge, but Johnson’s takedown defence and technical striking allowed him to control the pace. Johnson outworked Maksum on the feet, using a sharp jab and leg kicks to keep him at range. Over three rounds, he accumulated damage, earning a decisive unanimous decision.
Takeaway: Johnson proved he could neutralize a strong grappler, solidifying his ability to handle high-pressure opponents.
Fight #2: Unanimous Decision Over Jake Hadley (May 11, UFC Fight Night)
Result: Decision · Unanimous
In his second fight of 2024, Johnson faced Jake Hadley, a formidable and versatile opponent with an unorthodox style. The fight was a striking clinic from Johnson, who used his superior range and timing to outpoint Hadley. While Hadley attempted to mix in takedowns, Johnson’s footwork and defensive grappling kept him ahead in all exchanges. This was another clear decision victory for Johnson.
Takeaway: This fight showcased Johnson’s ability to stay composed against an unpredictable opponent while maintaining his dominance in the striking department.
Fight #3: TKO Victory Over Joshua Van (Jul 13, UFC Fight Night)
Result: TKO (Right Uppercut) · 0:20 · R3
One of Johnson’s most memorable performances of the year came against Joshua Van. The fight was highly competitive in the first two rounds, with Van applying constant pressure. However, Johnson’s experience and striking accuracy shone through in the third round. He landed a perfectly timed right uppercut just 20 seconds into the final round, earning a stunning TKO victory.
Takeaway: This fight demonstrated Johnson’s ability to finish fights when the opportunity arises, further solidifying his reputation as a well-rounded finisher.
Fight #4: Unanimous Decision Over Sumudaerji (Oct 19, UFC Fight Night)
Result: Decision · Unanimous
To cap off his perfect year, Johnson defeated Sumudaerji, another top-tier striker in the division. In what many expected to be a closely contested fight, Johnson outworked and out-struck Sumudaerji over three rounds. His diverse striking arsenal and ability to mix in feints and bodywork left Sumudaerji frustrated and unable to establish his rhythm. This dominant performance left no doubt about Johnson’s place in the division’s upper echelon.
Takeaway: By defeating a dangerous and dynamic striker like Sumudaerji, Johnson proved he could compete with the division’s elite.
What’s Next for Charles Johnson in 2025?
Charles Johnson’s 4-0 campaign in 2024 has positioned him as one of the top contenders in the flyweight division. With wins over undefeated prospects, dangerous finishers, and established veterans, Johnson has made a compelling case for a title eliminator—or even a title shot—in 2025.
Potential Matchups:
- Title Eliminator: The next title challenger could be determined by a fight against Matheus Nicolau, Amir Albazi, or Brandon Royval.
- Flyweight Title Shot: Depending on the state of the division, Johnson may already have done enough to earn a crack at the champion.
- Move to Bantamweight: Johnson’s frame and skill set could translate well to bantamweight, opening the door for exciting matchups in a new division.
Why Charles Johnson’s 2024 Was So Significant
Johnson’s perfect year wasn’t just about the wins—it was about the level of competition and the different challenges he overcame. He defeated grapplers, strikers, and relentless pressure fighters, showing he is one of the most well-rounded competitors in the UFC.
2024 elevated Johnson from a promising contender to a serious title threat. If he continues his momentum into 2025, Charles Johnson could very well become the next UFC flyweight champion—or carve out a new path in the bantamweight division. Whatever happens next, one thing is clear: the future is bright for “InnerG.”
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