“Bud” weighed in on a fighter’s viewpoint in the ongoing boxing versus mixed martial arts debate.
Lately, WBO Junior Welterweight champion Shakur Stevenson has downplayed the boxing skills of MMA fighters while issuing a challenge to Ilya Topuria. In response, UFC welterweight contender Joaquin Buckley fired back, passionately defending MMA.
Known as “New Mansa,” Buckley chimed in on the discussion by stating which martial arts discipline he believes truly represents “real” fighters — and it’s definitely not boxing.
Terrence Crawford Backs Joaquin Buckley in Boxing vs. MMA Debate
The argument over whether boxing or MMA boasts superior fighters has ramped up since Conor McGregor’s boxing match against Floyd Mayweather. Both camps have been exchanging barbs, with Buckley boldly claiming that if he and Stevenson met in a street fight, he would come out on top.
“You boxers show no respect to us UFC athletes,” Buckley said on Instagram. “Shakur, I wish you the best… but stop disrespecting us, bro. We’re way more exciting than you guys, that’s it.”
He added, “If we crossed paths now, I might kill you. I don’t want to, but realistically, if we fought, I’d win.”
While many reacted to Buckley’s comments, boxing superstar Terence Crawford was quick to dismiss them with humor on social media, suggesting Buckley’s lack of success in the Octagon made sense.
“(laughing emoji) Yeah, I get why he’s nowhere near the top. This guy doesn’t know what he’s talking about,” Crawford wrote on X.
“Who fights in the streets anymore? Talking about street fights like that is outdated. He probably forgets they’re making adjustments for the tough guys,” he added.
Crawford also shut down fans who supported Buckley’s chances against Stevenson, saying, “Yeah, in his dreams.”
Joaquin Buckley Calls Out UFC Welterweight Fighters
Buckley’s criticism isn’t just for boxers — he’s also taken aim at fellow UFC welterweights, accusing many of them of inactivity.
“The division is currently at a standstill,” Buckley vented in another Instagram clip. “The matchmakers know what they’re doing better than me, but the most popular division has no one fighting.”
He went on to call out several fighters by name, saying, “Some are playing around, others are partying, some are inactive or injured. We need to be proactive — that’s the truth.”
Buckley emphasized the need for action in 2026, pointing out that many welterweights are wasting valuable time right now.
Fan Take: This fiery back-and-forth between boxing and MMA stars highlights the growing rivalry and mutual respect tension between the two sports. For fight fans, it’s a sign that both industries are ready to prove themselves not just in the ring or cage, but also in the court of public opinion — which could lead to more crossover events and fresh matchups down the line.
