The co-main event of UFC Tampa found featherweight Hall of Famer and 20-year veteran Cub Swanson taking on the popular Billy Quarantillo.
The two veterans exchanged leg kicks to start the fight. Swanson’s movement seemed too much for Quarantillo—too fast and awkward angles. “Killer” Cub was landing straight right hands like jabs. Swanson was fighting like he was sparring, dodging strikes, landing at will, and smiling away. Quarantillo began landing late in the round, briefly dazing the California native.
The pair fought as if they were in a phone booth. In tight, both fighters landed punishing strikes. Slowly, halfway through the second round, Quarantillo began taking over the fight, as Swanson started to fade slightly. Quarantillo’s pace is similar to that of Colby Covington: volume and wrestling. Quarantillo was able to get Swanson down on a few takedown attempts.
It all came crashing down in the third round. Swanson had a very strong first round, and Quarantillo, a strong second. Halfway through the round, Swanson landed a concussive right hand, knocking Quarantillo out cold.
41-year-old Swanson took the mic after the fight to say thank you to the crowd for letting him entertain them. Swanson did hint at retirement saying he told his wife this one might be it, but then added “we’ll see.”
Official Result: Cub Swanson defeats Billy Quarantillo via KO (Round 3, 1:36)
