Cub Swanson and Billy Quarantillo at UFC Tampa’s ceremonial weigh-in at Amalie Arena, December 13, 2024 Credit: Jay Anderson/Cageside Press
The co-main event of UFC Tampa featured featherweight Hall of Famer and 20-year veteran Cub Swanson taking on popular Billy Quarantillo.
The two veterans started the match by exchanging leg kicks. Swanson’s movement seemed too much for Quarantillo — too fast and at an awkward angle. “Killer” Kabu was landing a straight right like a jab. Swanson fought as if he were sparring, dodging attacks, landing at will, and smiling. Quarantillo started landing late in the round, leaving the California native stunned for a moment.
The two fought as if they were in a telephone booth. In a tense situation, both fighters delivered punitive blows. Slowly, midway through the second round, Quarantillo began to take over the fight as Swanson began to fade slightly. Quarantillo’s pace is similar to Colby Covington’s pace in volume and wrestling. Quarantillo was able to take Swanson down with several takedowns.
It all fell apart in the third round. Swanson did very well in the first round and Quarantillo did well in the second round. Midway through the round, Swanson suffered a concussion to his right hand that sent Quarantillo down cold.
Swanson, 41, took the microphone after the game and thanked the crowd for entertaining them. Swanson hinted at retirement, telling his wife that this might be his retirement, but added, “We’ll see.”
Official result: Cub Swanson defeats Billy Quarantillo by KO (Round 3, 1:36)
