Joaquin Buckley doesn't shake hands with Dana White during his faceoff with Mike Malott and ignores every interview question from the reporter backstage

Joaquin Buckley's recent Octagon appearance has been as much about his conduct outside the cage as his performance within it. During the UFC 294 weigh-ins, Buckley conspicuously avoided shaking UFC President Dana White's hand during the customary face-off with opponent Mike Malott. This gesture, unusual in the promotion's standard protocol, immediately drew attention. Adding to the intrigue, following his bout, Buckley declined to answer any questions from the backstage interviewer, remaining silent throughout the segment. This deliberate silence and avoidance of standard interactions have become a talking point among fans and analysts.

Buckley, a dynamic middleweight contender, has built a reputation for exciting finishes and a high-octane fighting style. His career has seen him navigate the competitive landscape of the UFC's middleweight division, often delivering performances that capture the audience's imagination. While his fighting prowess is generally respected, his interactions with promotional figures and media have sometimes been a source of discussion. This latest episode of non-compliance with typical media obligations adds another layer to his public persona, prompting speculation about his motivations and future relationship with the organisation.

The implications of Buckley's actions are multifaceted. For the UFC, it presents a potential challenge in managing a fighter who deviates from established norms. For Buckley, this behaviour could be a calculated risk, aimed at cultivating a unique, perhaps even antagonistic, persona to stand out in a crowded roster. It might be an attempt to generate buzz or signal a particular mindset to his opponents and the fans. Alternatively, it could signal underlying issues or a personal stance that the promotion will need to address. How the UFC brass and White himself react to this will be telling for Buckley's future opportunities and standing within the organisation.

Fans will be watching closely to see if this is a one-off incident or the beginning of a new approach for Buckley's media and promotional activities. His next fight and his interactions leading up to it will be under a microscope.