Buckley Declines Handshakes, Stays Silent in UFC Interview

Joaquin Buckley declined handshake offers from UFC chief executive Dana White and opponent Mike Malott during ceremonial weigh-ins in Edmonton on October 16, then remained silent through a post-weigh-in interview, according to reports. His motivation was not confirmed, and speculation that the exchange could bring consequences from the promotion was unsupported by any reported action. The encounters took place during the face-off ahead of UFC Fight Night 291. Buckley kept his attention on Malott when the Canadian fighter offered his hand, and did not accept White’s outstretched hand when the UFC executive stepped between the fighters. Buckley also did not shake Malott’s hand. Video of the exchange circulated on social media. In a subsequent interview with UFC correspondent McKenzie Pavacich, Buckley did not answer questions, including ones about his preparation and the matchup. The interview ended after roughly a minute. Reports described the interaction, but did not establish why Buckley chose not to speak. The behavior prompted discussion about whether Buckley was concentrating on the fight or sending a message. He had not publicly confirmed that the handshake refusal was...