“She can’t stand, she can’t speak…” Joaquin Buckley gives emotional shout out to grandmother battling ALS after UFC St. Louis win

UFC St. Louis saw a heartwarming moment. Joaquin Buckley dedicated his victory to his grandmother, who is currently battling ALS after his impressive win. The emotional welterweight fighter sent a touching message and showcased his deep bond with the woman who raised him.

Buckley defeated the dangerous Nursulton Ruziboev in a 3-round battle at UFC St. Louis. Joaquin Buckley was then interviewed by Michael Bisping. He went to call out Conor McGregor. Buckley also talked about his grandmother and dedicated this win to her. He revealed that she had been battling ALS for quite some time.

My Grandma; she been battling this ALS for about 5 years now…She can’t stand, she can’t speak. But no matter what, she lives on every day with a smile on her face…Grandma, this was for you baby. You the reason I’m here right now baby.
Joaquin Buckley at the post-fight interview

His grandmother took responsibility as his guardian after his biological mother died during his sixth grade at school. Buckley’s grandmother is the one who held all the sums of courage to raise him. She made him fierce to face the challenges of being a professional fighter. The moment when she was diagnosed with ALS around five years ago, Buckley chose not to continue MMA and decided to take care of his grandmother. He even started taking the nighttime shift and stayed there for her 24/7 full time.

It was a selfless act demonstrating Buckley’s gratitude towards the woman who shaped his life. On Saturday night, with his grandmother undoubtedly watching, he delivered a performance worthy of her unwavering support. His stock continues to rise, but his roots remain firmly planted in the love and sacrifice of his family. Buckley is now on a four-fight win streak after this win. He recently won against Vicente Luque.

Joaquin Buckley pays his respect to UFC 1 pioneer

Joaquin Buckley recently paid a heartfelt tribute to Art Jimmerson, the boxing-based contestant at UFC 1. He tragically passed away at the age of 60. Jimmerson, famously known as “One Glove,” left an indelible mark on the early days of mixed martial arts with his unique and fearless approach.

Joaquin Buckley expresses his condolences (via Marca.com/ Sherdog)

Buckley, who hails from St. Louis like Jimmerson, took to social media to express his condolences and acknowledge the late boxer’s pioneering spirit. Buckley commented on the UFC’s Instagram post honoring Jimmerson’s legacy.

Man, true pioneer of the sport #STLFighter.

Joaquin Buckley via Instagram

This is the basic crux for those unfamiliar with Jimmerson’s legendary tale. The professional boxer stepped into the Octagon wearing only a single boxing glove at UFC 1 in 1993. Confident in his striking prowess, he hoped to keep one hand free for knockout punches while using the other for jabbing. However, Jimmerson’s bold strategy was quickly thwarted by the legendary Royce Gracie.

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The BJJ icon swiftly took the fight to the ground and secured the first submission victory in UFC history. Jimmerson’s UFC tenure was brief. But his fearless approach and willingness to test himself against the unknown solidified his place in MMA lore.