A featherweight matchup between Cub Swanson and Billy Quarantillo will serve as the co-main event for UFC Tampa later tonight (Dec.14) at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida.
Swanson (29-14) is a true veteran of the sport holding wins over popular names including Charles Oliveria and Jeremy Stephens among others. However, at 42 years of age, he seems to be in the twilight years of his career.
'Killer' is 2-3 in his last five and would be hoping to get in the win column again after a split decision loss against Andre Fili in June.
In the other half of the event, Quarantillo (18-6) has produced mixed results in his UFC career. Much like his opponent, the 36-year-old is 2-3 in his last five. A win this time around seems to be a non-negotiable for the fighter if he is to justify his place on the roster.
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Quarantillo will enter the fight as a -148 favorite with Swanson as a +124 underdog. The main card of UFC Tampa is now live. Stick with Sportskeeda for live coverage and play-by-play updates from the fight card.
Check out the full fighter face-offs below:
UFC Tampa: Cub Swanson vs. Billy Quarantillo
Round 1
Quarantillo tries to push the action. However, Swanson comes swinging realizing he is being forced back to the cage. 'Killer' lands a big right hand which momentarily stuns Quarantillo.
A quick right hand stuns Swanson, but the killer quickly returns fire with a straight punch of his own. Swanson's power is denying his opponent opportunities to engage in prolonged striking sequences with him.
Quarantillo eats a right-hand flush on the chin. Swanson lands a big elbow. The 'Killer' seems to be gaining ground. Wow!!! out of nowhere, Quarantillo stuns his foe with a punch and takes him to the ground. What an opening round.
Our score: 10-9 Swanson
Round 2
Quarantillo is trying to push the pace on his opponent. He lands a right hand on Swanson's chin. The UFC veteran however refuses to back up and comes back with a right hand of his own which hurts his opponent.
The pair readily engages in the center of the octagon. A big knee lands for Quarantillo. He then forces Swanson to the cage wall and unloads another flurry. 'Killer's' is still moving well, but it might only be a while for the accumulated damages to catch up to him.
Qurantillo forces a level change, but Swanson springs back to his feet. He goes back on the offensive and lands a series of punches and a high kick. Quarantillo forces a takedown and a frantic scramble ensues. As the fighters get back to their feet both land a few quality shots.
Our score: 10-9 Quarantillo
Round 3
Swanson lands a high kick and Quarantillo eats like it's nothing. Both men are going berserk in the cage both landing debilitating shots. Out of nowhere, Swanson lands a nuclear right hand on the button that shuts his opponent's lights out. What a finish!!!
Swanson is the victory.
Official result: Cub Swanson def. Billy Quarantillo via KO. (3:24 of Round 3 )
Post-fight
Swanson teases that this might be his final pro-fight.
Check out Cub Swanson celebrate his UFC Tampa victory below: