Joaquin Buckley's nickname origin: Why is the UFC welterweight known as 'New Mansa?'

While speaking in a May 2023 press conference, the talented UFC fighter Joaquin Buckley shed light on the origin of his nickname 'New Mansa.'

Taking the opportunity to explain the significance of the moniker, Buckley drew inspiration from the ninth mansa of the Mali Empire named Mansa Musa, who is claimed to be the wealthiest person in history:

"My nickname 'New Mansa' comes from this man called Mansa Musa. Historically, he was known as one of the richest men who have ever lived, you know. And he came from the Mali Empire. I just thought for myself, you know, I think of myself as the king, I think of myself... as a leader and somebody who is always willing to explore... new adventures. Because he is one of the people who [inaudible] with all the money that he had, searching for the new world."

Check out Joaquin Buckley talk about the inspiration behind his moniker in the video below:

Joaquin Buckley made his UFC debut in August 2020 and has produced some good performances under the promotion's banner. Most notably, his astonishing knockout win over Impa Kasanganay created a viral sensation.

As Kasanganay attempted a low kick in the second round of the fight, Buckley caught his leg and answered with a swift spinning back kick that immediately knocked Kasanganay out. It has become one of the most iconic moments in Buckley's UFC career. However, he could not enjoy consistent success in the weight class.

After facing defeats against Nassourdine Imavov and Chris Curtis in 2022, Buckley decided to move down a weight class to compete at welterweight. The 29-year-old American went 5-4 in the UFC middleweight division, and he was eager to turn the tides in his favor.

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Joaquin Buckley will go up against the most high-profile opponent of his career this weekend

Joaquin Buckley's promotional debut as a welterweight came to fruition at UFC Vegas 73 against Andre Fialho. Buckley registered a statement win in the welterweight debut by knocking out Fialho via head kick in the second round. 'New Mansa' then outpointed Alex Morono in his next fight en route to a unanimous decision victory.

Currently riding a two-fight winning streak, the 29-year-old will take on No. 11-ranked welterweight contender Vicente Luque at this weekend's UFC Atlantic City event. Luque was originally scheduled to headline the event against Sean Brady. However, the American was forced to pull out of the fight due to an injury.

Buckley stepped up to fight Luque and the fight was moved down to the co-main event slot. Luque is one of the most notable fighters in the division, and at one point, held a top-seven spot in the UFC welterweight rankings.

A win over Luque can significantly improve Buckley's standing in the division and potentially catapult him into the top 15 of the division. It will be interesting to see if 'New Mansa' can pull off the upset win over the most high-profile opponent of his career so far.