Conor McGregor was garnering plenty of attention even before he signed with the UFC, and the featherweight prospect demonstrated why at his Octagon debut in April, by putting away Marcus Brimage in the first round. Since then, the Irish fighter has continue to capture headlines not only because he’s set to fight Max Holloway at UFC Fight Night 26 (which is an awesome fight), but because of some of the comments he’s made.

For example, not long after Jose Aldo stopped “The Korean Zombie” at UFC 163, McGregor let it be known that he wouldn’t have trouble “”with either of them”. The 25 year-old also added that “I’m bringing more hype than everyone else combined.” People, especially veteran fighters, tend to notice statements like that.

Cub Swanson has also been in the spotlight lately thanks to a five fight winning streak, which includes wins over fellow contenders like Dustin Poirier and most recently Dennis Siver. While appearing on the MMA Roasted podcast recently, here’s what the surging veteran had to say about McGregor and some of the statements he’s made (quote via Fighters Only Magazine.com).

“I like the kid, I really see a future for him in the UFC because he is talented. But he runs his mouth and you’ve got to be careful when you do that,” he tells MMA Roasted.

“For some reason he decided to take a shot at me. I’m a fan of many fighters but as soon as they start looking at me the fighter in me comes out and I’m like, ‘You better watch your damn mouth.’”

“That would be a fight that I would love to do once he makes a name for himself but right now he is still a nobody. If he lives up to the hype he can fight me down the road but for now he has to fight somebody in the top ten first.”

Plenty of eyes are certainly going to be on McGregor this Saturday to see how he performs versus Holloway. If McGregor scores another big win, he very well could be tapped to fight a top contender in just his third UFC bout.

Stay tuned to MMA Convert.com for all your UFC news and coverage.

The post Swanson Tells McGregor to Watch his “Mouth” appeared first on MMA Convert.

Recently news surfaced that the UFC has added one of Japan’s top fighters, as PRIDE and DREAM vet Tatsuya Kawajiri is headed to the promotion’s featherweight division. For hardcore and old school fans the signing is big news in particular, since for some time Kawajiri was widely regarded to be one of the planet’s best lightweights. After all, this is a man who handed current UFC contender Josh Thomson a UD loss on NYE, 2010.

There’s been no official word regarding Kawajiri’s Octagon debut, but it sounds like the “Crusher” wants a stiff test right off the bat. When asked recently on Twitter who he would like to fight his first UFC bout, Kawajiri stated:

@TitaniumRhino @danawhite @joerogan I want to fight with @CubSwanson. He won the hiroyuki takaya in WEC. Takaya is my friend.

— 川尻達也tatsuya kawajiri (@CRUSHER_MMA) October 26, 2013

Kawajiri also retweeted several links relaying his desire to fight the contender. Since Swanson has won five straight bouts and is in the title shot mix, the #4 ranked featherweight is likely hoping to face a top five contender next (or the champ Jose Aldo himself). Kawajiri has been a big name in the sport for a long time, however, so you never know.

Stay tuned to MMA Convert.com for all your UFC news and coverage.

The post “Crusher” Kawajiri Wants Cub Swanson in UFC Debut appeared first on MMA Convert.

Tickets for the UFC’s return trip to Texas will go on sale beginning Wednesday, as UFC Fight Night: Swanson vs. Stephens takes place June 28.

Set for San Antonio and the AT&T Center, the card will feature a main event between featherweights Cub Swanson and Jeremy Stephens. Other bouts announced to date include Colton Smith-Carlos Diego Ferreira, Andy Enz-Marcelo Guimaraes and Anthony Hamilton-Oleksiy Oliynyk.

UFC Fight Club members can purchase tickets on Wednesday at 11 a.m. ET, while newsletter subscribers will be given access on Thursday.

Public tickets go on sale Friday through Ticketmaster or the AT&T Center website. Prices are $175, $125, $75 and $50.

The post UFC Fight Night: Swanson Vs. Stephens Ticket Information appeared first on MMA Convert.

Maybe Dustin Poirier forgot about the current UFC schedule that has Cub Swanson meeting Jeremy Stephens later this year in San Antonio on a UFC Fight Night card.

On Twitter recently, Poirier asked Swanson about a rematch. Poirier dropped a decision to Swanson last year, but has reeled off three straight wins since.

For what it’s worth, Swanson didn’t just ignore “The Diamond’s” request. Instead, he proposed that Poirier step inside the Octagon with Clay Guida, who is coming off a recent victory in Abu Dhabi.

Swanson-Stephens is set for June 28 from San Antonio and the AT&T Center. It is scheduled for five rounds.

Poirier earned a second round TKO victory over Akira Corassani earlier this month in Canada, adding to his knockout win vs. Diego Brandao to close out 2013.

@DustinPoirier I know Clay Guida doesn't have a fight yet but I do

— Cub Swanson (@CubSwanson) April 26, 2014

The post Cub Swanson Tells Dustin Poirier, “Sorry, I’m Busy” appeared first on MMA Convert.

UFC officials have released the planned lineup for UFC Fight Night: Swanson vs. Stephens later this month. The card takes place June 28 from the AT&T Center in San Antonio.

In the main event, Cub Swanson meets Jeremy Stephens. Other FOX Sports 1 main card bouts include Kelvin Gastelum vs. Nicholas Musoke, Frank Trevino vs. Abel Trujillo and Andrew Craig vs. Cezar Ferreira.

Action starts at 6:30 p.m. ET on UFC Fight Pass with three events, transitioning over to FS1 at 8 p.m. ET for the remainder of the night. Earlier that day, UFC Fight Night 43 from New Zealand will air exclusively on Fight Pass.

Below is the current lineup:

MAIN CARD (FOX Sports 1/10 p.m. ET)

Featherweight: Cub Swanson vs. Jeremy Stephens

Welterweight: Kelvin Gastelum vs. Nico Musoke

Lightweight: Frank Trevino vs. Abel Trujillo

Middleweight: Andrew Craig vs. Cezar Ferreira

Featherweight: Ricardo Lamas vs. Hacran Dias

Middleweight: Clint Hester vs. Antonio Brago Neto

PRELIMINARY CARD (FOX Sports 1/8 p.m. ET)

Lightweight: Joe Ellenberger vs. Johnny Case

Bantamweight: Johnny Bedford vs. Cody Gibson

Lightweight: Colton Smith vs. Carlos Diego Ferreira

Welterweight: Sean Spencer vs. Luiz Dutra

PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC Fight Pass/6:30 p.m. ET)

Flyweight: Ryan Benoit vs. Ray Borg

Heavyweight: Anthony Hamilton vs. Oleksiy Oliynyk

Middleweight: Marcelo Guimaraes vs. Andy Enz

The post UFC Fight Night 43 Fight Card: Lineup Finalized For Later This Month appeared first on MMA Convert.

Tyron Woodley and Cub Swanson, who are both set for action this month, were featured on a recent edition of “Ultimate Insider” on FOX Sports 1.

Woodley faces Rory MacDonald this coming Saturday night at UFC 174, while Swanson meets Jeremy Stephens later this month at UFC Fight Night.

Check out both clips in the videos below:

The post Tyron Woodley, Cub Swanson Features From Ultimate Insider appeared first on MMA Convert.

Jeremy Stephens doesn’t believe there is an area inside the Octagon where Cub Swanson will give him fits.

The two meet this Saturday night in the main event of UFC Fight Night from San Antonio and the AT&T Center. The winner could make a great case for a future UFC featherweight title fight, as Stephens is 3-0 since dropping down to the division.

“I can strike with him, I can ground-and-pound him, I can out-wrestle him,” said Stephens, during a recent interview with FOX Sports, “I can get back up to my feet and I can submit him. I know I can beat this guy.”

Stephens (23-9), who turned 28 years old in May, has defeated Darren Elkins, Rony Jason via knockout with a head kick and Estevan Payan since a string of defeats at lightweight. He lost a split decision to current UFC champion Anthony Pettis and another decision to Donald Cerrone before being finished by Yves Edwards and deciding to drop down in weight.

With 15 victories via knockout, Stephens feels he can finish off Swanson within the distance.

“When I hit people, it’s not a flash knockout where they get back up,” Stephens said. “I hit people where it’s like, ‘What happened?’ The coaches have to wake them up.

“That’s just a difference in power.”

The post UFC Fight Night’s Jeremy Stephens Believes In His Power appeared first on MMA Convert.

UFC Fight Night 44 main event competitor Jeremy Stephens takes us on his fight week preparation for Saturday and Cub Swanson in the first installment in his video blog series.

The video begins with Stephens and his crew saddling up into an airplane for an adventure and continues through the fighter beginning to work towards making weight later this week.

The post UFC Fight Night 44: Main Eventer Takes Us Through Fight-Week Prep appeared first on MMA Convert.

UFC Fight Night: Swanson vs. Stephens takes place this Saturday night to conclude a doubleheader. In the main event, featherweight contenders Cub Swanson and Jeremy Stephens will square off.

Set for San Antonio and the AT&T Center, the majority of the action will air live on FOX Sports 1. One prelim bout, Oleksiy Oliynyk and Anthony Hamilton, will air on UFC Fight Pass to begin the night.

FightLine will have coverage, including live play-by-play and post-fight news and information, from the event.

Below is the current lineup:

MAIN CARD (FOX Sports 1/10 p.m. ET)

Featherweight: Cub Swanson vs. Jeremy Stephens

Welterweight: Kelvin Gastelum vs. Nico Musoke

Middleweight: Andrew Craig vs. Cezar Ferreira

Featherweight: Ricardo Lamas vs. Hacran Dias

Middleweight: Clint Hester vs. Antonio Brago Neto

Lightweight: Joe Ellenberger vs. James Moontasri

PRELIMINARY CARD (FOX Sports 1/8 p.m. ET)

Lightweight: Colton Smith vs. Carlos Diego Ferreira

Bantamweight: Johnny Bedford vs. Cody Gibson

Middleweight: Marcelo Guimaraes vs. Andy Enz

Flyweight: Shane Howell vs. Ray Borg

PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC Fight Pass/7:30 p.m. ET)

Heavyweight: Anthony Hamilton vs. Oleksiy Oliynyk

The post UFC Fight Night: Swanson Vs. Stephens Fight Card, Event This Saturday appeared first on MMA Convert.

Earlier this week, open workouts were held in San Antonio for Saturday’s UFC Fight Night 44 event from the AT&T Center.

Check out main event fighters Cub Swanson and Jeremy Stephens in the video below.

As always, FightLine will be providing complete coverage of the card, which begins on UFC Fight Pass at 7:30 p.m. ET before moving over to FOX Sports 1 for the remainder of the night at 8 p.m. ET.

The post UFC Fight Night 44: Open Workouts appeared first on MMA Convert.

The official weigh-ins for UFC Fight Night 44: Swanson vs. Stephens will take place today at 5 p.m. ET from San Antonio.

The main event features featherweight contenders Cub Swanson and Jeremy Stephens, with a co-main event pitting Kelvin Gastelum against Nico Musoke.

FightLine will have complete coverage of the weigh-ins, along with live play-by-play of Saturday’s card from the AT&T Center.

Below is the current lineup and video for the weigh-ins:

MAIN CARD (FOX Sports 1/10 p.m. ET)

Featherweight: Cub Swanson vs. Jeremy Stephens

Welterweight: Kelvin Gastelum vs. Nico Musoke

Middleweight: Andrew Craig vs. Cezar Ferreira

Featherweight: Ricardo Lamas vs. Hacran Dias

Middleweight: Clint Hester vs. Antonio Brago Neto

Lightweight: Joe Ellenberger vs. James Moontasri

PRELIMINARY CARD (FOX Sports 1/8 p.m. ET)

Lightweight: Colton Smith vs. Carlos Diego Ferreira

Bantamweight: Johnny Bedford vs. Cody Gibson

Middleweight: Marcelo Guimaraes vs. Andy Enz

Flyweight: Shane Howell vs. Ray Borg

PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC Fight Pass/7:30 p.m. ET)

Heavyweight: Anthony Hamilton vs. Oleksiy Oliynyk

The post UFC Fight Night 44: Weigh-Ins At 5 PM ET Today appeared first on MMA Convert.

The official weigh-ins for UFC Fight Night 44: Swanson vs. Stephens took place earlier today from San Antonio.

The main event features featherweight contenders Cub Swanson and Jeremy Stephens, with a co-main event pitting Kelvin Gastelum against Nico Musoke.

Gastelum weighed in at 173 pounds, two over the welterweight limit. He will have two hours to cut or forfeit a portion of his purse. It marks the second straight time he has missed weight on his first attempt.

UPDATE: Gastelum weighed in at 172.75 pounds on his second attempt and will forfeit a portion of his purse.

FightLine will have complete coverage of all the action, beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET with the UFC Fight Pass prelim bout and continuing through the entire FOX Sports 1 card. We’ll also have all your post-fight news and information.

Check out the complete weigh-in results, along with a video preview, below:

MAIN CARD (FOX Sports 1/10 p.m. ET)

Cub Swanson (145 lbs.) vs. Jeremy Stephens (145)

Kelvin Gastelum (173) vs. Nico Musoke (171)

Andrew Craig (186) vs. Cezar Ferreira (186)

Ricardo Lamas (146) vs. Hacran Dias (146)

Clint Hester (186) vs. Antonio Brago Neto (185)

Joe Ellenberger (155.5) vs. James Moontasri (156)

PRELIMINARY CARD (FOX Sports 1/8 p.m. ET)

Colton Smith (156) vs. Carlos Diego Ferreira (155)

Johnny Bedford (136) vs. Cody Gibson (135)

Marcelo Guimaraes (186) vs. Andy Enz (186)

Shane Howell (125.5) vs. Ray Borg (126)

PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC Fight Pass/7:30 p.m. ET)

Anthony Hamilton (253) vs. Oleksiy Oliynyk (240)

The post UFC Fight Night 44 Weigh-In Results appeared first on MMA Convert.

The decision to move down to featherweight from lightweight has come with nothing but success for Jeremy Stephens through three fights.

Stephens will put that win streak on the line Saturday night against Cub Swanson in the main event of UFC Fight Night 44. With a win, he believes a title shot will come his way – and also feels he is ready to win the belt.

“I can adapt to anyone’s style in the division,” said Stephens, during a recent interview on UFC Tonight. “I’m strong and fast and just as explosive, and feel like I have the power to knock out the champion.”

Stephens (23-9) earned a decision over Estevan Payan last year in his debut at 145 pounds, following that up with a 40-second knockout of former Ultimate Fighter: Brazil winner Rony Jason. He secured his position as a future contender by defeating Darren Elkins in January.

“I feel like I’m a completely different fighter,” Stephens said. “You have to be willing to evolve and adapt. I’m a lot more powerful at 145 pounds.”

With Swanson, Stephens will be facing a fighter with exceptional speed and power, as well. However, he feels the strength still sides with him.

“I think I can dominate him in all areas,” he said. “I feel like I’m the better overall MMA fighter and I have the power on the feet. I just have to go out there and prove it.”

FightLine will be providing complete coverage of the entire event, including live play-by-play and post-fight news and information.

The post UFC Fight Night 44: Stephens Believes He’s Better Than Swanson appeared first on MMA Convert.

Cub Swanson will get the opportunity to cement his status as the next contender to the UFC’s featherweight title on Saturday night when he faces Jeremy Stephens in the main event of UFC Fight Night 44.

Swanson, coming off elbow surgery but riding a five-fight win streak, told “UFC Tonight” earlier this week that he plans to take it to Stephens.

“I’ve always said maybe I don’t hit that hard, but I’m pretty accurate,” he said. “I keep a gnarly pace and it doesn’t matter how I’m getting the W’s.”

Swanson (20-5) last fought in July, finishing Dennis Siver. Of his five most recent wins, four have been finishes, including three within the opening two rounds of action. That’s something he plans to do again this weekend.

“I prepared for five rounds early in my camp, but I’ve forgotten about that now,” Swanson admitted. “I’m just preparing for two rounds because that’s all I need.

“It ends with his missing me because of my head movement and me taking it to him.”

Swanson has fought both current UFC champion Jose Aldo and contender Chad Mendes inside the WEC cage. He was finished by Aldo in 2009 via TKO and lost a decision to Mendes a year later.

However, he feels his track record and current run more than make him a worthy contender for the winner of that August contest.

“This would be six wins in a row for me,” he said. “I’m on point, looking sharp. I’m hungry and it’s my time.

“This is 11 years in the making and it’s about time I get the title shot.”

The post UFC Fight Night 44’s Cub Swanson Predicts Finish appeared first on MMA Convert.

Cub Swanson has become a bit of a forgotten man in the UFC’s featherweight division. But that all changes Saturday night when he steps into the main event role at UFC Fight Night 44 against Jeremy Stephens.

Swanson (20-5), regarded by many as the No. 1 contender to Jose Aldo’s title, hasn’t fought since last July when he finished Dennis Siver. He’s on a five-fight win streak that includes four finishes, but was passed over by Chad Mendes for the next crack at the belt.

“He is a worthy No. 1 contender right now and in my eyes, as already done enough to earn a title shot,” said Jon Anik, who will call the card alongside Brian Stann, during a recent interview with FightLine. “(UFC matchmaker) Sean Shelby would agree, it just didn’t happen for one reason or another.

“The stakes are really high for both guys and I feel that will help both performances. Both guys are hitting their prime and are ready for a shot at the featherweight title. But only one will get it.”

Swanson met Aldo once before, losing a title-eliminator in the WEC via TKO in eight seconds. He’s won seven of nine since, including stoppages vs. Charles Oliveira, Ross Pearson and George Roop.

“Cub has been around the game for so long that I don’t expect the year layoff to have a factor for him,” Anik said. “He is getting so much better. He is a technical guy that can finish you in any number of ways.”

Anik continued, stating one of the reasons he has been on the sidelines since July comes from “not a lot of fights making sense for him to take because of his standing and ranking. This fight, though, makes sense.

“Stephens is a high-profile opponent who is undefeated in the division. He puts on ‘Fight of the Night’ performances, and this bout has a lot of upside for both of them despite Stephens not being highly-ranked.”

Stephens (23-9) is 3-0 since the move from lightweight to featherweight, defeating Darren Elkins and Estevan Payan via decision and Rony Jason with a 40-second head-kick knockout.

“Stephens’ power has come down with him, but I think this will be a fight in which he is at a speed disadvantage,” Anik said. “His maturity has improved and he benefits from supremely good coaching at Alliance MMA. He hasn’t had a difficult weight cut in three ties, but this is his litmus test because he is fighting an elite guy (at featherweight).”

Anik, though, feels like the headline bout and main event billing will provide Swanson with the perfect opportunity to make his mark and secure a future title shot against either Aldo or Mendes.

“I think this is Cub Swanson’s opportunity to grab the microphone and ask for a title shot (after winning),” Anik said. “I think he is so mentally tough and as long as he is healthy, can be the best ’45er in the world on any given day.”

FightLine will be providing complete coverage of Swanson-Stephens, along with the rest of the card Saturday night.

The post UFC Fight Night 44’s Cub Swanson Has Big Chance, Says Jon Anik (Exclusive) appeared first on MMA Convert.

Chael Sonnen and Kenny Florian take us in-depth to debate tonight’s UFC Fight Night 44 main event between featherweights Cub Swanson and Jeremy Stephens.

FightLine will be providing complete coverage of the entire event, including live play-by-play and post-fight news and information.

The post UFC Fight Night 44 Breakdown From Sonnen, Florian appeared first on MMA Convert.

Let’s head back to UFC on FX 4 from Atlantic City, as Cub Swanson takes out Ross Pearson in a featherweight contest.

While Pearson has since moved back to the lightweight division, Swanson has positioned himself as a potential contender to the belt. He’ll meet Jeremy Stephens Saturday night at UFC Fight Night 44 from San Antonio.

FightLine will have complete coverage of the card, including play-by-play and post-fight news and information.

The post UFC Fight Night 44: Cub Swanson Handles Ross Pearson appeared first on MMA Convert.

Welcome to FightLine’s live coverage of UFC Fight Night 44: Swanson vs. Stephens.

Tonight’s card comes to us live from the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas.

Now, on to the action! Remember to keep hitting “refresh” for the latest results.

PRELIMINARY CARD

Oleksiy Oliynyk vs. Anthony Hamilton

We open up the action with heavyweights Oleksiy Oliynyk and Anthony Hamilton.

Oliynyk (48-9-1) has won nine in a row since a split decision loss to Jeff Monson in 2012. Hamilton (12-2), like Oliynyk, is making his UFC debut and has won six straight.

Round 1: Hamilton, who worked with Alistair Overeem in his training, lands a nice knee inside the clinch. Oliynyk fires back with a stiff right and puts together a combo that stuns Hamilton for a brief moment. Groin shot from inside the clinch, an uppercut that connected low, stops the action for a moment. Hamilton comes back firing, but gets caught again by Oliynyk and his right. Another right to the chin nearly drops Hamilton, but he grabs to defend a takedown. Oliynyk scores and moves for a choke, cranking on the neck from the side as we go under three minutes. Seconds later, and Hamilton taps and this one is over, as Oliynyk scores his 38th career submission victory.

Oleksiy Oliynyk def. Anthony Hamilton via submission (neck crank) at 2:18 of Round 1

Ray Borg vs. Shane Howell

We take flight in the flyweight division to kick-start the televised prelims, as Ray Borg battles Shane Howell.

Borg (6-1) suffered his first career loss in April via split decision to Dustin Ortiz in his Octagon debut, while Howell (13-7) is fighting for the first time and owns a six-bout win streak.

Round 1: Good little transition on the ground from these two flyweights, as Borg moves to the back and works for a rear-naked choke. He’s got the body controlled and is trying to secure the submission. Howell gets free of the choke, but remains locked up on the ground. Working more of a crank now, as Howell sits on his butt. Borg keeps it locked up and gets the choke again, and Howell is out.

Ray Borg def. Shane Howell via submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:17 of Round 1

Andy Enz vs. Marcelo Guimaraes

A pair of one-loss middleweights square off next, as Andy Enz takes on Marcelo Guimaraes.

Enz (7-1) suffered his first career loss to Clint Hester this past February, while Guimaraes (8-1-1) was also defeated in his first UFC fight, which came in early 2013 to Hyun Gyu Lim.

Round 1: Guimaraes peppering him with kicks to start, taking out the reach disadvantage. He shoots for a double-leg takedown, is denied, switches to a slam and scored. Enz, though, gets right back up to his feet without taking any damage. Enz tags him with a right hook and another that lands flush. Former UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson is in the corner of Enz, as they are training partners at The MMA Lab in Arizona. Looks like there is some damage done to the face of Guimaraes. Back to working the kicks for the underdog, but he eats a 1-2 combo.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Enz

Round 2: Enz with another right hook, but Guimaraes is doing a better job hitting him with his jab. Overhand right connects, and another, for Guimaraes, who has found his range and mixes in a body kick. He seems to have figured Enz out and is continuing to apply the pressure. Takedown for Guimaraes and he goes to the back, but Enz gets to his feet. Good round for Guimaraes so far, as he is hitting him with just about everything he throws.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Guimaraes

Round 3: The corner of Enz told him he is down 2-0, and it’s very possible that he is. He comes out with a little more power, landing a nice kick to the face. Enz with a combo that sends Guimaraes retreating, but he’s unable to follow up. Guimaraes eats a right and scores with a takedown, but again, Enz gets right to his feet. Great scramble work for him throughout. Guimaraes really working the uppercut, as the corner of Enz continues to plead for combos from him. However, Guimaraes is taking the leg out with several power kicks and has yet to check anything. He’s got one wounded wheel for sure. Guimaraes with one more takedown, but no damage inflicted yet again.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Guimaraes

Marcelo Guimaraes def. Andy Enz via split decision (27-30, 29-28, 29-28)

Johnny Bedford vs. Cody Gibson

Our lone bantamweight contest of the night will see Johnny Bedford take on Cody Gibson.

Bedford (19-10-1) was scheduled to face Rani Yahya in a rematch of an April contest that was declared a no-contest, but Yahya pulled out. Gibson (11-4) dropped his UFC debut to Aljamain Sterling, seeing his six-fight win streak come to a halt.

Round 1: What a crazy opener, as the two exchange and trade blows. Gibson connects and Bedford goes flailing back from a huge right hand. His head bounced off the mat and it appeared as if he was out. The ref starts to step in and stop the contest, backs up and Gibson looks at him. He is forced to call a stop to the fight, even though he didn’t appear to really want to. Bedford is protesting it heavily and will likely appeal, but for now, it stands as a win for Gibson.

Cody Gibson def. Johnny Bedford via TKO (strikes) at :38 of Round 1

Colton Smith vs. Carlos Diego Ferreira

We conclude the prelims with former Ultimate Fighter winner Colton Smith and Carlos Diego Ferreira.

Smith (3-3) has dropped two straight via finish since winning the TUF title over Mike Ricci in 2012. Ferreira (9-0) is making his debut and owns five submission victories to his credit.

Round 1: Good ovation for Smith, as he fights out of Fort Hood, Texas. Ferreira with a nice side kick and Smith clinches against the fence. Judo toss for Ferreira and he takes the back, securing a rear-naked choke and this one is all over.

Carlos Diego Ferreira def. Colton Smith via submission (rear-naked choke) at :38 of Round 1

MAIN CARD

Joe Ellenberger vs. James Moontasri

Our second straight lightweight tilt will see the long-awaited debut of Joe Ellenberger, as he takes on James Moontasri.

Ellenberger (14-1) is the brother of welterweight Jake Ellenberger and has gone through numerous opponent changes. Moontasri (7-1) will also be fighting for the first time with the UFC.

Round 1: Ellenberger shoots for a takedown, but does eat a straight right. Doing a nice job of avoiding the takedown at the moment and he stays upright. Moontasri with a knee, but Ellenberger grabs the neck and has a headlock secured. He lands a knee from the clinch to the head. Moontasri survives and gets to his feet again and they square off. Moontasri connects and pounces, landing a huge uppercut that floors Ellenberger. Moontasri now inside the guard and he opens up Ellenberger with a shot. Big lefts being hammered down by Moontasri, as Ellenberger tries to lock him up. Instead of punching himself out, Moontasri asks him to get up and Ellenberger is wobbly. He’s still throwing bombs, but eats another big left hand and tries for a single-leg takedown.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Moontasri

Round 2: Ellenberger gets a takedown and is on the back of Moontasri, looking to lock up a rear-naked choke as we go under four minutes. Ellenberger goes high and gets both hooks in, but he a bit out of position. He switches to a mount and lands a pair of heavy elbows. Strong ground-and-pound for Ellenberger and he transitions to a D’arce choke. Moontasri rolls the right way and he gets free. Now it’s Moontasri who has a busted face, and a possible broken nose. He decides to bring the fight standing, as both men are breathing heavily. Moontasri connects, but Ellenberger scores a takedown.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Ellenberger

Round 3: Ellenberger goes right in for a takedown to start, working hard against the fence. Perfectly-designed takedown for Ellenberger this time, improving his position and landing good shots to Moontasri’s face. Moontasri retaliates and is firing back, as both men are taking breathing heavily. Moontasri notices the camera on him while Ellenberger is trying to advance and smiles, showing a busted nose and blood all over. Moontasri inside the guard and just throwing weak shots to the body, as Ellenberger tries for a couple of armbars.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Moontasri

Joe Ellenberger def. James Moontasri via split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)

Clint Hester vs. Antonio Braga Neto

We return to the land of middleweights with Clint Hester and Antonio Braga Neto.

Hester (10-3) has won six in a row, including three with the UFC since appearing on The Ultimate Fighter. Neto (9-1) earned a submission win over Anthony Smith in his Octagon debut earlier this year.

Round 1: Hester trying to stay just far enough away from Neto to avoid the takedown, as both throw long strikes. Hester throwing swooping left hooks and Neto clinches. He’s doing a great job denying the takedown and making Neto work hard, but he eventually succumbs. Neto mounts as they are against the cage. Neto with a minute and counting of Octagon control on the ground, but Hester gets to his feet. As soon as he does, Neto tosses him back down. Small shots getting through for Neto, but the ref told Hester he knows he’s “good” so far.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Neto

Round 2: Hester throwing bombs, landing a kick to the body and a huge overhand right. Hester might be trying to lull Neto in to land the knockout shot, snapping off jabs and low leg kicks. Hester blocks a front kick and lands a right jab. Neto shoots for a takedown and Hester reverses and scores, but he gets swept and winds up on his back. After a strong opening couple of minutes, Neto closes out in the mount and in a dominant position, possibly stealing the round.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Neto

Round 3: Here comes Hester, firing off huge rights. Neto goes for a takedown, but Hester gets right to his feet and is teeing off again. Hester moving forward and throwing everything, but he gets too close and winds up on his back. Hester reverses and lands a nice elbow from the top as we head under two minutes. Back to the feet with seconds to go and Hester peppers him with a left, and another. Good right hand gets through for Hester, but Neto scores a late takedown.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Hester

Clint Hester def. Antonio Braga Neto via split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)

Ricardo Lamas vs. Hacran Dias

Featherweights Ricardo Lamas and Hacran Dias try to keep pace with the 145-pound division next.

Lamas (13-3) was fighting for the title this past February, seeing his four-fight win streak snapped by Jose Aldo. Dias (21-2-1) is also looking to rebound following a decision loss to Nik Lentz that ended his nine-bout win streak.

Round 1: Dias quickly takes the center of the Octagon, throwing heavy leg kicks at Lamas. Lamas trying to come back with kicks of his own to even things up early in the round. The Brazilian doing a great job of stuffing takedown attempts and connects with a left hook. Dias clinches against the fence, but Lamas reverses.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Dias

Round 2: Lamas takes the back and is working to break him down to the ground. Dias shows excellent takedown defense and stays upright, much to the chagrin of Lamas, a well-decorated wrestler. Again with the leg kicks is Dias, forcing Lamas to clinch. Dias with an overhand right and another, but Lamas gets in deep and scores with a double-leg.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Dias

Round 3: Lamas comes out and scores the takedown, but Dias gets right back to his feet. Interesting transition and Dias winds up on top with three minutes to go. Lamas is able to get to his feet and tries for a guillotine, but is forced to back up against the fence. Lamas uses his wrestling skills, transitions, but Dias grabs hold of the wrist and is able to get to his feet. Lamas with a combo, goes for another takedown and is working hard for it.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Lamas

Ricardo Lamas def. Hacran Dias via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

Andrew Craig vs. Cezar Ferreira

We head back to the middleweight ranks with Andrew Craig and Cezar Ferreira.

Craig (9-2) has won just once in his last three fights, scoring a split decision over Chris Leben. Ferreira (7-3) had his three-fight win streak snapped by CB Dollaway when he was knocked out in March.

Round 1: Huge left hand for Ferreira catches Craig, and he quickly goes for a choke. He’s working for a guillotine, powering Craig down. Big knees to the shoulder area of Craig, who still has hold of the neck. Better patience for Ferreira than he showed vs. Dollaway, and Craig is able to get to his feet. Pair of left kicks connect for the Brazilian. Big cut on the head of Craig has been opened up, and en eye poke causes a stoppage in play. The blood is trickling down the left side of Craig’s head. Vitor Belfort in the corner of Ferreira, shouting out instructions. Ferreira with a perfectly-timed takedown, as he shows off his physical abilities by flying off his feet to finish it.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Ferreira

Round 2: Good 1-2 for Craig lands and Ferreira answers with a jumping switch-kick. More calculated approaches for both men, as they are looking to hit and not be hit at this point. Ferreira tries for a huge head kick, but it gets checked. Ferreira clinches against the fence, bullying for a takedown to no avail.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Ferreira

Round 3: Perfect elbow lands from Ferreira, and it opens up a huge gash on the forehead of Craig. He’s a bloody mess, and Ferreira scores with a takedown. Ferreira takes his back and locks in a body triangle with three minutes to go in the final round. The ref stands them up and Craig lands a huge shot that floors Ferreira and sends him sailing across the canvas. Craig pounces, the crowd rises with him, and Craig is trying ot finish this one. Tey are teeing off on each other, but Ferreira survives.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Ferreira

Cezar Ferreira def. Andrew Craig via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)

Kelvin Gastelum vs. Nicholas Musoke

We’ll see a former winner of The Ultimate Fighter in the co-main event, as Kelvin Gastelum tries to remain unbeaten against Nicholas Musoke at welterweight.

Gastelum (8-0) is coming off a split decision over Rick Story, while Musoke (12-2) has defeated Alessio Sakara and Viscardi Andrade inside the Octagon.

Round 1: Musoke all over Gastelum, landing a head kick and following up. Gastelum seems a little off, maybe from the failed weigh-in on Friday. They clinch, exchange and Musoke spins him back up against the fence. Musoke takes the back off a takedown, but Gastelum is able to get free and stand up. Musoke takes the back again, has his hooks in and is in control. Tremendous ground work for Musoke, but Gastelum eventually spins and gets free at the end of the round.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Musoke

Round 2: Gastelum finds his range here in the opening moments, backing Musoke up against the fence. He’s peppering him with lefts and rights, but Musoke appears to have found his wits again. Much better round for Gastelum, who has been on point with his striking. Big body shots, a head kick and Gastelum is coming after Musoke.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Gastelum

Round 3: Gastelum looking very strong despite the rough weight-cutting experience. He’s the fresher fighter, and Musoke has been unable to use his takedowns this round. Musoke unable to take advantage off a slip, and Gastelum gets back to his feet. Prime opportunity there that Musoke let slip away, and Gastelum makes him pay with more effective striking. Both men have some wounds, as Gastelum is bleeding from right eye area and Musoke around his nose.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Gastelum

Kelvin Gastelum def. Nicholas Musoke via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Cub Swanson vs. Jeremy Stephens

It’s time for the main event, as featherweights Cub Swanson and Jeremy Stephens square off.

Swanson (20-5) is fighting for the first time since last July when he finished Dennis Siver for his fifth straight win. Stephens (23-9) is on a three-fight win streak, all of which have come since he dropped down from lightweight.

Round 1: No touch of gloves and we are off. Stephens throws a kick and Swanson answers. Huge right leg kick for Stephens, and Swanson fakes a right and follows up with a kick of his own. Stephens checks a body kick, as Swanson is moving and changing stances quite a bit. Stephens coming back with a good straight jab. Swanson with a cartwheel kick that misses, but was still pretty impressive. Stephens catches him with a huge right hand that stops Swanson in his tracks. Swanson with a right, fires off a kick that Stephens catches, and that allows Stephens to score with a counter.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Stephens

Round 2: Stephens catches Swanson and lands an uppercut, and a right. He has found his striking range, cutting off the Octagon and trapping him. Stephens continues to hit Swanson with all his power shots, getting an “it didn’t hurt” smile out of Cub. Again, Stephens catches him coming in and drops Swanson for a brief moment. Another lands for the underdog, who has been on-point so far. A second cartwheel kick connects for Swanson, this one stunning him for a brief second. Stephens with a power takedown, and Swanson uses the fence to get back to his feet. No admonishment from the ref for the use of the cage.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Stephens

Round 3: The corner of Stephens seemed concerned over a possible hand injury between rounds. Swanson with a big right that lands, and Stephens counters. Swanson goes to the body and has Stephens rocked and reeling. He’s peppering him with quick right jabs after a liver shot. Swooping left and right from Swanson land and an uppercut. More rights by Swanson connect to the face and Stephens goes for a takedown. Just like that, with one shot, the momentum has turned in the favor of the favorite. Kick to the face is blocked by Stephens. Stephens wants to slow things down, going for a takedown as we approach the one-minute mark.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Swanson

Round 4: Much better round than the third for Stephens, as he is staying away from the range of Swanson and landing his own shots. Stephens pounces when Swanson gets his foot caught between the canvas and the fence. He’s gotten back to his feet, but allowed Stephens to gain the clinch. Reversal and we go under two minutes. Stephens throws the right, which he hasn’t done much, maybe confirming the possible break. Perfect combo for Swanson to conclude the round, as he also defends a takedown.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Swanson

Round 5: Swanson’s corner had to tell him this was the final round, as he thought there were two left. He opens up a cut on the nose of Stephens. Body shot for Stephens connects, but not much power behind it at this point. Kick to the liver for Swanson, a cartwheel kick and several jabs, and he is coming after Stephens now with two minutes to go. A right catches Stephens and his face is starting to show the wars now. All smiles for Swanson with 90 seconds left. As we go under 30 seconds, Stephens lands a right and Swanson smiles. Another right and Stephens is teeing off with power punches. Swanson answers and this one ends with fireworks and a hug.

FightLine scores the round 10-9 for Swanson

Cub Swanson def. Jeremy Stephens via unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 48-47)

Thanks for joining us, and we’ll be back next Saturday night with UFC 175, featuring Chris Weidman-Lyoto Machida, Ronda Rousey-Alexis Davis and more.

The post UFC Fight Night 44 Live Coverage, Results From San Antonio appeared first on MMA Convert.

For the sixth straight time inside the Octagon, Cub Swanson had his hand raised, defeating Jeremy Stephens in the main event of UFC Fight Night 44 Saturday night from San Antonio.

While most feel Swanson is the No. 1 contender and will face the winner of Jose Aldo-Chad Mendes, he didn’t take the opportunity to ask for that chance.

“I don’t beg,” said Swanson, when asked about fighting for the UFC featherweight title.

Aldo and Mendes will meet in August, and Swanson will have plenty of time to heal up after a five-round grueling bout with Stephens.

Swanson (21-5) hasn’t lost since his Octagon debut in 2011 to Ricardo Lamas via submission. Of those six wins, four were finishes. Two of his career defeats came in the WEC to Aldo and Mendes.

“Have I redeemed myself or what?” Swanson asked the San Antonio crowd. “After the second round, coach Greg (Jackson) I asked if he wanted me to turn it up? He said yes, so I told him, ‘Will do.'”

For Stephens (23-10), the loss was his first since dropping down from lightweight to 145 pounds. His coach mentioned a possible injury between rounds, and he confirmed that.

“I threw a left hook and my whole left hand went numb,” Stephens said. “I continued to use it because I know the UFC takes care of us and I wanted to put on a fight for the fans.”

The post Cub Swanson Shines At UFC Fight Night 44 appeared first on MMA Convert.

UFC Fight Night 44 went down Saturday night from San Antonio and featured Cub Swanson defeating Jeremy Stephens in the main event.

In the videos below, catch all the highlights from that fight, along with Kelvin Gastelum-Nico Musoke, Andrew Craig-Cezar Ferreirad and Hacran Dias-Ricardo Lamas.

There are also video interviews with Swanson and Gastelum, along with highlights from the post-fight press conference.

The post UFC Fight Night 44 Video Recaps appeared first on MMA Convert.

For Cub Swanson, the idea of becoming UFC featherweight champion means more than avenging a tough-luck loss to Jose Aldo.

Swanson likely cemented his status as the next contender for the title by winning his sixth straight bout Saturday night at UFC Fight Night 44 over Jeremy Stephens. For now, Aldo has a title defense vs. Chad Mendes set for August.

“I want to fight Aldo,” said Swanson, on the FOX Sports 1 post-fight show. “I want to be the guy to dethrone the legend.

“But I want the gold, so I’ll fight whoever the champion is.”

Swanson was defeated by a flying knee delivered from Aldo in the WEC during the opening moments of their fight. He also lost to Mendes inside the WEC cage. Since a submission defeat to previous No. 1 contender Ricardo Lamas, Swanson has put together his impressive win streak in the 145-pound division.

Entering his fight with Stephens, who was unbeaten at featherweight, Swanson knew the pressure was on to perform. He made sure to add a new weapon to his arsenal – a liver kick – that turned out to be a major difference-maker.

“I study a lot of tape and noticed a trend that everybody gets dropped by that kick. So I tried it,” he said. “I feel great about the win. It was great to have a battle every round. I kept telling myself to do better each round.”

The post Cub Swanson Discusses Wanting To Dethrone Jose Aldo appeared first on MMA Convert.

Shortly here soon, the UFC Fight Night 46 Fight Club Q&A will begin from Ireland – and you can catch it right here.

Forrest Griffin, Cub Swanson, Luke Barnatt, Jimi Manuwa and Eddie Gordon will all be answering questions beginning at noon ET.

The post UFC Fight Night 46 “Fight Club” Q&A appeared first on MMA Convert.

Finally, UFC Fight Night 57 has a main event, as officials announced Frankie Edgar vs. Cub Swanson for the headline act.

Set for November 22 from the Frank Erwin Center on the University of Texas campus, Edgar and Swanson will meet in a possible No. 1 contender match. Also, the co-main event was confirmed, with lightweights Edson Barboza and Bobby Green squaring off.

Edgar (17-4-1), a former UFC lightweight champion, earned his 11th Octagon victory this past July when he stopped BJ Penn. It marked the third meeting between the fighters, with the first two coming in the lightweight division.

Swanson (21-5) appeared poised to become the next contender to the title after earning his sixth straight win, but a delay in the planned Jose Aldo-Chad Mendes fight has forced him to take on “The Answer.” Swanson has topped Jeremy Stephens, Dennis Siver, Dustin Poirier, Charles Oliveira, Ross Pearson and George Roop.

Barboza (14-2) rebounded from a knockout loss to Donald Cerrone recently, submitting Evan Dunham, Green (23-5) has won all four of his UFC fights since coming over from Strikeforce.

Below is the current lineup for the night:

Featherweight: Frankie Edgar vs. Cub Swanson

Lightweight: Edson Barboza vs. Bobby Green

Flyweight: Joseph Benavidez vs. Dustin Ortiz

Female Strawweight: Paige VanZant vs. Kailin Curran

Lightweight: Matt Wiman vs. Isaac Vallie-Flagg

Middleweight: Luke Barnatt vs. Roger Narvaez

Heavyweight: Jared Rosholt vs. Oleksiy Oliynyk

Lightweight: Nick Hein vs. James Vick

Lightweight: Yves Edwards vs. Akbarh Arrelola

Flyweight: Brad Pickett vs. Chico Camus

The post UFC Fight Night 57 Card: Frankie Edgar-Cub Swanson Set For Main Event appeared first on MMA Convert.

Information for tickets to the November UFC Fight Night: Edgar vs. Swanson event in Texas has been released.

Set for November 22 from Austin and the Frank Erwin Center, the card features a main event between featherweight contenders Frankie Edgar and Cub Swanson. The two will meet in a scheduled five-round bout.

Also, former lightweights Bobby Green and Edson Barboza meet in the co-main event, while flyweights Joseph Benavidez-Dustin Ortiz and Brad Pickett-Chico Camus battle.

Tickets for UFC Fight Club members go on sale Wednesday at 11 a.m. ET via the UFC Fight Club website, while a special internet ticket pre-sale takes place Thursday on UFC.com to UFC newsletter subscribers.

General tickets are set for release on Friday at 11 a.m. ET on the Texas Box Office site and select Austin-area H-E-B Grocery Stores. Tickets are priced between $40-$150.

Below is the current lineup, which will kickoff on Fight Pass at 7 p.m. ET. The remaining bouts air on FOX Sports 1 the night of the card.

Featherweight: Frankie Edgar vs. Cub Swanson

Lightweight: Edson Barboza vs. Bobby Green

Flyweight: Joseph Benavidez vs. Dustin Ortiz

Female Strawweight: Paige VanZant vs. Kailin Curran

Lightweight: Matt Wiman vs. Isaac Vallie-Flagg

Middleweight: Luke Barnatt vs. Roger Narvaez

Heavyweight: Jared Rosholt vs. Oleksiy Oliynyk

Lightweight: Nick Hein vs. James Vick

Lightweight: Yves Edwards vs. Akbarh Arrelola

Flyweight: Brad Pickett vs. Chico Camus

Featherweight: Juan Puig vs. Dooho Choi

The post UFC Fight Night 57 Tickets Go On Sale Wednesday, Card Inside appeared first on MMA Convert.

The bout order has been determined for UFC Fight Night 57, which takes place November 22 from Austin, Texas.

All but two bouts will air on FOX Sports 1, as action starts at 7 p.m. ET with a pair of Fight Pass bouts. That includes the Octagon debut of Paige VanZant, who was too young to compete on The Ultimate Fighter.

Frankie Edgar and Cub Swanson headline the show, while lightweights Edson Barboza and Bobby Green square off in the co-main event. Other main card fights include Brad Pickett-Chico Camus, Jared Rosholt-Oleksiy Oliynyk, Joseph Benavidez-Dustin Ortiz and Matt Wiman-Isaac Vallie-Flagg.

The complete lineup and a video preview can be found below:

MAIN CARD (FOX Sports 1/10 p.m. ET)

Featherweight: Frankie Edgar vs. Cub Swanson

Lightweight: Edson Barboza vs. Bobby Green

Flyweight: Brad Pickett vs. Chico Camus

Heavyweight: Jared Rosholt vs. Oleksiy Oliynyk

Flyweight: Joseph Benavidez vs. Dustin Ortiz

Lightweight: Matt Wiman vs. Isaac Vallie-Flagg

PRELIMINARY CARD (FOX Sports 1/8 p.m. ET)

Heavyweight: Josh Copeland vs. Ruslan Magomedov

Middleweight: Luke Barnatt vs. Roger Narvaez

Lightweight: Nick Hein vs. James Vick

Lightweight: Yves Edwards vs. Akbarh Arrelola

PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC Fight Pass/7 p.m. ET)

Female Strawweight: Paige VanZant vs. Kailin Curran

Featherweight: Juan Puig vs. Dooho Choi

The post UFC Fight NIght 57: 10 Bouts Set For FS1 appeared first on MMA Convert.

The UFC heads to the “Lone Star State” this Saturday night with UFC Fight Night 57: Edgar vs. Swanson.

Set for the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas, the majority of the action airs on FOX Sports 1. Two prelims begin the night at 7 p.m. ET on UFC Fight Pass.

In the main event, former UFC lightweight champion Frankie Edgar takes on fellow featherweight top contender Cub Swanson, while lightweights Bobby Green and Edson Barboza meet in the co-main.

Edgar (16-4-1) previously challenged for the featherweight title, falling to Jose Aldo. He has won two straight, including a finish vs. BJ Penn. Swanson (21-5) is on a six-fight win streak that includes victories over Dustin Poirier, Ross Pearson and Jeremy Stephens.

“This is an extremely important fight between two top featherweights to prove who is the true number-one contender in an extremely stacked 145-pound weight class,” said UFC on FOX analyst Kenny Florian. “This has the potential to be one of the best fights of the year. Frankie will go down as a Hall of Famer, and Swanson is currently at his best of his career. Cub is an unpredictable and powerful striker motivated to get the belt, while Frankie, with his speed and amazing footwork, is looking to become a rare two division champ.”

Other main card bouts include Brad Pickett-Chico Camus, Jared Rosholt-Oleksiy Oliynyk, Joseph Benavidez-Dustin Ortiz and Matt Wiman-Isaac Vallie-Flagg.

Four fights are lined up for the FS1 prelims at 8 p.m. ET, including Ruslan Magomedov, Luke Barnatt, James Vick and Yves Edwards all in action. The early prelims will feature the UFC debut of Paige VanZant.

Below is the current lineup:

MAIN CARD (FOX Sports 1/10 p.m. ET)

Featherweight: Frankie Edgar vs. Cub Swanson

Lightweight: Edson Barboza vs. Bobby Green

Flyweight: Brad Pickett vs. Chico Camus

Heavyweight: Jared Rosholt vs. Oleksiy Oliynyk

Flyweight: Joseph Benavidez vs. Dustin Ortiz

Lightweight: Matt Wiman vs. Isaac Vallie-Flagg

PRELIMINARY CARD (FOX Sports 1/8 p.m. ET)

Heavyweight: Josh Copeland vs. Ruslan Magomedov

Middleweight: Luke Barnatt vs. Roger Narvaez

Lightweight: Nick Hein vs. James Vick

Lightweight: Yves Edwards vs. Akbarh Arrelola

PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC Fight Pass/7 p.m. ET)

Female Strawweight: Paige VanZant vs. Kailin Curran

Featherweight: Juan Puig vs. Dooho Choi

The post UFC Fight Night 57: Edgar-Swanson Battle This Saturday Night appeared first on MMA Convert.

Check out clips from the recent episode of “UFC Tonight” in the videos below.

The show brought in Saturday’s main event fighters, Frankie Edgar and Cub Swanson, for interviews, along with offering up predictions for UFC Fight Night 57 and discussing the Top-5 mustaches in UFC history.

The post UFC Fight Night 57: Interviews With Edgar, Swanson appeared first on MMA Convert.

Weigh-ins for Saturday’s UFC Fight Night 57 event went down earlier today from Austin, Texas and can be found below, along with a video replay.

In the main event, Frankie Edgar and Cub Swanson meet in a key featherweight contest. The co-main boasts lightweights Bobby Green and Edson Barboza.

Edgar weighed in at exactly 145, while Swanson was just under 146. All 24 fighters successfully made weight for the event.

Below you will find complete weigh-in results and the video replay for the event:

MAIN CARD (FOX Sports 1/10 p.m. ET)

Frankie Edgar (145 lbs.) vs. Cub Swanson (145.8)

Edson Barboza (155) vs. Bobby Green (155.4)

Brad Pickett (126) vs. Chico Camus (125.6)

Jared Rosholt (240) vs. Oleksiy Oliynyk (235)

Joseph Benavidez (125.6) vs. Dustin Ortiz (125.6)

Matt Wiman (155.4) vs. Isaac Vallie-Flagg (156)

PRELIMINARY CARD (FOX Sports 1/8 p.m. ET)

Josh Copeland (264) vs. Ruslan Magomedov (246)

Luke Barnatt (185.4) vs. Roger Narvaez (185.4)

Nick Hein (154.2) vs. James Vick (155.8)

Yves Edwards (154.6) vs. Akbarh Arrelola (155.6)

PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC Fight Pass/7 p.m. ET)

Paige VanZant (114.6) vs. Kailin Curran (115.6)

Juan Puig (145.6) vs. Doo Ho Choi (145.8)

The post UFC Fight Night 57: Complete Weigh-In Results appeared first on MMA Convert.

“UFC Tonight” hosts Daniel Cormier and Kenny Florian offered up their thoughts concerning tonight’s UFC Fight Night 57 main event between featherweights Frankie Edgar and Cub Swanson earlier this week.

The card airs on FOX Sports 1 from the University of Texas’ Frank Erwin Center.

For Swanson, the bout is of the utmost importance, as a title fight vs. Jose Aldo hangs in the balance. He has won six straight, including finishes of Dennis Siver, Charles Oliveira, Ross Pearson and George Roop.

“He has to dominate the ring,” Cormier said. “If he allows Frankie to fight at his pace, he will have a problem. He believes he’ll have the speed advantage, but Edgar is very fast. Cub also has to defend takedowns he has has to punch him. Frankie punches at a great pace. Frankie is more active than the other guys he fights.

“Cub has to use his reach. He has to keep it standing and keep Frankie from taking him down. He has to look for the finish and make a statement for the title shot.”

Florian, a former title contender, believes Edgar can use Swanson’s biggest assets against him. “The Answer” has scored back-to-back wins since a 2013 loss to Aldo for the belt.

“I believe Cub has the speed to stand with him, but sometimes Cub gets too aggressive,” Florian said. “And that opens him up to takedowns. With Frankie’s wrestling, he can’t do that. Edgar’s keys are he has to push the pace, utilize the angles and land the takedown.”

Predictions from the two can be found in the video below:

The post UFC Fight Night 57 Keys Courtesy Daniel Cormier, Kenny Florian appeared first on MMA Convert.

As part of his incredible win streak, Cub Swanson handled the tough Dennis Siver.

Tonight, Swanson looks to cement his status as the No. 1 contender when he meets Frankie Edgar at UFC Fight Night 57. Check out a fight replay of the Swanson-Siver contest in the video below:

The post UFC Fight Night 57 Primer: Cub Swanson Takes Out Dennis Siver appeared first on MMA Convert.

Former UFC lightweight champion Frankie Edgar has always been about allowing his body of work to speak for itself.

Tonight, Cub Swanson can cement his status as the next contender to Jose Aldo’s UFC featherweight title with a win over Edgar at UFC Fight Night 57. That, though, doesn’t mean Edgar is fighting for the same thing.

And he has no problems with that – for now.

Edgar (17-4-1) has won two straight since a loss to Aldo in his featherweight debut last year. He finished former champion BJ Penn this past July after a win in 2013 over Charles Oliveira.

“I’m not focused on (a title shot),” said Edgar, during an interview on UFC Tonight earlier this week. “If I don’t win this fight, none of that matters. I’ve got to win this fight, then I go bug (UFC president) Dana (White) about that.”

Lately, talking has become the norm for the 145-pound division, especially since the arrival of Conor McGregor. “The Answer” doesn’t see it as being a bad thing, it’s just not his style.

“Lots of guys are talking,” he said. “They’re following Conor’s lead. I’m just going to let my fighting speak for myself and make it so they have to give me my shot.”

Edgar will be trying to snap Swanson’s six-fight win streak, and he knows that the key to doing that is simple: stay true to what works.

“I have to be myself,” he said. “He’s cocky and he’s got heavy hands. I have to stay technical and smart.”

The post UFC Fight Night 57: Frankie Edgar Sticking To His Ways appeared first on MMA Convert.

Okay. With the prelims over, we move to the UFC FN 57 main card, which will feature Frankie Edgar versus fellow, featherweight contender Frankie Edgar in the headliner.

Isaac Vallie-Flagg vs. Matt Wiman 

Wiman is set to return to action for the first time in nearly two years. Wiman wings a couple of hard shots to begin the fight and Vallie-Flagg clinches up. Wiman has his back up against the cage and takes an elbow. Vallie-Flagg throws some shots, breaks away, and then clinches up again. Wiman fires back a couple of elbows of his own. Vallie-Flagg flurries and then re-clinches. Both men are landing elbows and punches along the fence. Wiman spins out but Vallie-Flagg pushes him back to the fence. The latter goes for a takedown but Wiman takes his back, and then rolls into an armbar. Wow. Vallie-Flagg keeps his arms wrapped, however, and the round ends.

Round two: Both lightweights come out firing and Wiman goes for a single leg. Vallie-Flagg defends. Once again Wiman is up against the fence, but he scrambles out as Vallie-Flagg goes for a takedown. The elbow fest continues. Vallie-Flagg takes the fight to the cage. More dirty boxing / striking. Vallie-Flagg plants two hard, uppercuts, but Wiman fires back. This is a grinding, brutal fight. Wiman takes Vallie-Flagg’s back in another scramble, but the latter works his way out. Yikes. Both men continue to land strikes to the body and head from in close.

Round three: Vallie-Flagg chucks a kick and punches to begin the round, but once again, Wiman fires back. Now Wiman has VF up against the cage. Wiman drops for a leg but takes a barrage of elbows for his efforts. Fight moves to center of the Octagon briefly. Each man continues to score. Vallie-Flagg goes for a takedown, but yet again, Wiman takes the opportunity to take his opponent’s back. Wiman’s hunting for a rear-naked-choke. Fight comes to an end. What a gruelling scrap. Wee bit surprised to see two 30-27 scores…

Matt Wiman def. Isaac Vallie-Flagg via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

Joseph Benavidez vs. Dustin Ortiz

This flyweight fight should be fantastic. Both guys come out firing shots. Ortiz is moving forward and Benavidez is firing back. High volume of strikes as expected. Benavidez appears to be landing more often and Ortiz’s face is starting to show some wear. Now Benavidez is moving forward move often, and feinting with level changes. Benavidez plants a couple of hard shots but Ortiz returns with a good left. Benavidez explodes in and lands a beautifully timed takedown. The Team Alpha Male passes Ortiz’s guard but round ends.

Round two: Ortiz charges out but Benavidez pushes him back with an impressive flurry. Ortiz resumes his pursuit. The Roufusport fighter takes a head kick and moves back. Benavidez charges in but Ortiz seems okay. The latter shoots in for a takedown but can’t keep Benavidez down. Benavidez finds a home with a hard overhand right but gets swept to the floor not long after. In the ensuing scramble, the fight moves back to standing. Benavidez is slowing down a bit. Ortiz defends a takedown attempt and tries one of his own. Round ends.

Round three: Benavidez defends another takedown attempt from Ortiz and takes his back, standing, along the fence. Ortiz spins out. Benavidez is still beating Ortiz to the punch and the latter shoots in again. Benavidez defends again. Moments later Benavidez clinches, throws Ortiz down but can’t keep him there. Lots of scrambling going on as Ortiz repeatedly attempts to take Benavidez down. Benavidez fires a spinning heel kick that misses. Great action. Ortiz will likely–should–lose the decision but showed he can hang with a top contender.

Joseph Benavidez def. Dustin Ortiz via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

 Oleksiy Oliynyk vs. Jared Rosholt 

Oliynyk is winging hard right hands but Rosholt comes back with a brutal barrage of uppercuts. Oliynyk appears to be in trouble but is firing back. Rosholt ties him up and has Oliynyk up against the fence. Rosholt’s bleeding already. Once again, Rosholt punishes Oliynyk  with uppercuts and elbows. The heavyweights break apart. BAM! Oliynyk floors Rosholt with huge left hook and finishes the deal with follow up shots. Rosholt’s out cold. That could very well have landed the Ukrainian some bonus dollars…What a crazy, thrilling scrap.

Oleksiy Oliynyk def. Jared Rosholt via knockout (punches) R1, 3:21

Brad Pickett vs. Chico Camus

Pickett lands a cracking right to begin the fight but Camus takes it. The latter fires back with a flying knee and a left hook. Pickett attempts a takedown but Camus beautifully defends. Great start. Pickett changes levels again and gets the takedown. The British flyweight has top position and is landing shots from above. Pickett passes into half guard momentarily. A bloodied Camus works his way out. Pickett is also cut. Camus finds a home for a hard left but Pickett doesn’t seem fazed. What else is new. Outstanding pace of violence. Camus shoots in but Pickett scrambles back to his feet. Another left by Camus. Round ends as Pickett lands a leg kick.

Round two: Looks like Pickett picked up a busted nose in round one. Camus continues to land beautifully timed shots. Pickett shoots in on a double but can’t get the takedown. High volume of punches. Pickett attempts his own flying knee that misses badly. Camus punishes Pickett’s nose with a stiff jab. And does so again. Pickett blasts in with a well timed takedown. Camus gets back to his feet and threatens with a guillotine. Pickett plants a couple hard shots but Camus seems okay. Camus pulls the arms in the air taunt and Pickett does too…Round ends.

Round three: After some footwork by both men, Pickett goes for a single leg but can’t get it.  Camus is on his bike, throwing a shot or two and moving out. Pickett changes levels again, shoots in, but Camus defends. Both guys continue to stay busy. Typical, high octane, flyweight action. Pickett lands a right. Not long after he goes for a takedown, but again, Camus defends. Pickett lands a front kick. Both guys chuck hard shots before the round ends. Great and very close fight.

Chico Camus def. Brad Pickett via split decision  (29-28, 27-30, 29-28)

Bobby Green vs. Edson Barboza 

It only takes a couple of seconds before Green is head shaking off a Barboza kick attempt. Barboza throws a hard, hard body kick but gets swept to the mat. The feared striker pops right back up. Green is throwing a lot of front kicks. Barboza flurries but Green defends. Green literally shrugs a Barboza attack off his shoulders…Now Green is smiling. Barboza plants a hard left hook but Green motions no problem. Green keeps shaking his head but Barboza is landing more often. Green launches a flying knee, which misses, before the round ends.

Round two: Barboza partially lands a head kick early in the round. Green shrugs it off. Green takes a follow up punch and a spinning kick that stuns him. Green seems okay. Barboza is winging hard shots. Green attempts another flying knee. Follows up with a spinning back fist that misses. Wow. Green is still shaking off shots from Barboza and keeps calling him on. Green is buckled by a thumping leg kick. Green has landed a few leg kicks of his own. Round ends.

Round three: Green absorbs a hard shot from Barboza early on. Not long after, Green lands a left hook that cuts Barboza. Green is keeping busy with kicks but Barboza continues to stay light on his feet. Green is landing more often in the third but Barboza isn’t fazed. Green is pursuing the elusive Barboza but can’t get that one big shot in. Green takes a hard counter shot, and not long after, Barboza raises his arms knowing he’s likely won the bout. The final buzzer sounds.

Edson Barboza def. Bobby Green (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Frankie Edgar vs. Cub Swanson

Alrighty. The main event is here folks. Each featherweight teases with jabs to begin the fight. Edgar threatens with a level change but Swanson defends. The latter launches a right hand that appears to land. Edgar momentarily clinches up. Swanson is tossing hard shots. Edgar eats a right. Edgar attempts another takedown but Swanson defends and smiles. Swanson steps up his pursuit of Edgar but gets taken down. Swanson works butterfly guard and gets back to his feet. The two exchange shots but Edgar manages to trip Swanson to the mat. Round ends.

Round two: Swanson tosses a big uppercut to begin the round but Edgar seems okay. Edgar feints a level change and wings a head kick that misses. Swanson throws some big shots but Edgar counters. Swanson is cut above his left eye. Edgar starts working a takedown and gets it. The former lightweight champ is working in half guard. Swanson is taking some shots from above and his cut is worse as a result. Edgar brings the pain with elbows. Swanson attempts to bump up and out but can’t. Big, big round for Edgar.

Round three: Swanson throws a few jabs to begin the round. Edgar charges in and gets to Swanson’s back. Edgar gets the takedown again and is working from within Swanson’s guard. Edgar tosses punches from above. Swanson tries to scramble out but Edgar shuts it down. Swanson can’t work his way out. Edgar continues to punish the Jackson’s MMA fighter with ground-and-pound madness. Wow. Another clear cut round for Edgar.

Round four: Swanson is chucking big punches to begin the round. He follows up with a nasty body kick. Edgar blasts in with a fantastic double leg. Swanson momentarily defends, but once again, he winds up on his back. Edgar continues to rule the day with G-N-P. Edgar moves into full mount and Swanson is eating more hard shots. Swanson finally works his way back to his feet but Edgar dominated the round once again.

Round five: Both featherweights look fresh to begin the round. Swanson plants a right but Edgar counters. The latter attempts a single leg but Swanson shrugs it off. Edgar repeats and this time gets it. Once again, the decorated fighter is working from within Swanson’s half guard. Swanson needs to do something and fast. Edgar threatens with a guillotine choke but can’t keep it. Now Edgar is in full mount and goes for a side choke. Wow. Swanson works his way out. Edgar may not be pitching a no hitter but it’s pretty close to a shut out. Edgar is throwing down shot after shot. Edgar goes for a rear-naked-choke, might have been more of a crank, and gets the tap out. Yeah. Neck crank. What a performance for Edgar.

Frankie Edgar def. Cub Swanson via submission (rear-naked-choke / neck crank) R5, 4:56

The post UFC FN 57: Main Card Play-By-Play And Results appeared first on MMA Convert.

Check out the highlights from Saturday night’s UFC Fight Night 57 event, including the finish between Frankie Edgar and Cub Swanson.

The post UFC Fight Night 57 Video Highlights appeared first on MMA Convert.

Cub Swanson was prepared to take that next step and challenge for the UFC featherweight title.

Instead, he was humbled by former champion Frankie Edgar and sent back to the drawing board. Edgar earned a fifth-round submission victory in a bout he controlled throughout at UFC Fight Night 57.

After stringing together a six-fight win streak, Swanson (21-6) was unable to overcome Edgar (18-4-1). However, like many pro athletes do, he admitted the loss was a learning experience for himself during an interview on FOX Sports 1 after.

“It was super frustrating, but he did what he had to do and he exposed me,” Swanson said. “I was super-confident. I thought I prepared…I obviously under-prepared. I want to thank him for the lesson; I’m going to get better.”

The 31-year-old Swanson is a notorious hard puncher, but he’s struggled vs. sound wrestlers in the past. He’s lost to the likes of Ricardo Lamas and Chad Mendes previously in his career.

While many would have sat on the sidelines and waited to cash in on a likely title shot, Swanson accepted his toughest fight to date.

“I took this fight because I felt he was one of the best in the world and I wanted to test myself,” he said. “I’m getting up there in age and I wanted to see how bad I am.”

The post UFC Fight Night 57: Cub Swanson Accepts His Loss appeared first on MMA Convert.

Check out the first installment of Cub Swanson’s “Tour of Japan” series ahead of his fight this Saturday night vs. Tatsuya Kawajiri.

The two meet on UFC Fight Pass in the prelim main event from Utah.

The post UFC Fight Night 92: Cub Swanson Tours Japan appeared first on MMA Convert.

For the first time, the Octagon made a stop in Utah Saturday night with UFC Fight Night 92.

In the main event, Yair Rodriguez and Alex Caceres threw everything they could at each other, with Rodriguez picking up the split decision. Rodriguez, a former winner of The Ultimate Fighter: Latin America, kept his UFC record unbeaten with the win, landing almost 150 total strikes in the five-round affair.

This was the first main event bout for both fighters.

More featherweights were featured in the co-main event, as Dennis Bermudez scored his ninth Octagon win with a convincing decision over Rony Jason. Bermudez bloodied the Brazilian, using his wrestling to negate the explosive striking of Jason.

Thales Leites, a former title contender, choked out Chris Camozzi in the third round to snap a two-fight losing streak. In a meeting of veteran welterweights, it was Santiago Ponzinibbio coming out with his hand raised over Zak Cummings.

Trevor Smith scored a victory over Joe Gigliotti despite being the betting underdog in a middleweight affair. To open the main card, Maryna Moroz scored a split decision victory over newcomer Danielle Taylor for her third Octagon win in four appearances.

Utah’s own Court McGee, a former Ultimate Fighter winner, scored his 18th career win with a decision victory over Dominique Steele in the FS1 prelim main event. McGee landed with several takedowns and almost finished Steele in the opening seconds with a stiff right hand jab.

Marcin Tybura’s first Octagon win was that of perfection, as the heavyweight improved to 14-2 with a second round knockout of Viktor Pesta. Tybura connected with a high-kick that knocked Pesta out cold on the canvas immediately.

David Teymur earned his second finish inside the Octagon, knocking out Jason Novelli in the second round of their lightweight contest. If you haven’t heard of Teruto Ishihara, you likely will have after this. He scored a knockout victory over Horacio Gutierrez and celebrated as only he can, improving to 10-2-2 in his career.

In the featured UFC Fight Pass bout, Cub Swanson picked up his 23rd career win with a decision win over Tatsuya Kawajiri. While Kawajiri finally scored late with takedowns, Swanson showed his endurance to control the 15-minute battle and improve to 8-3 overall with the UFC.

Heavyweight Justin Ledet had a picture-perfect debut to open the night, effectively out-striking Chase Sherman and remaining unbeaten in his career with a decision win.

The attendance inside the Vivint Smart House Arena was announced at 6,689 for a live gate of $481,033.

Complete play-by-play can be found on FightLine and full results are below:

Dennis Bermudez def. Rony Jason via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-26, 30-27)

Thales Leites def. Chris Camozzi via submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:58 of Round 3

Santiago Ponzinibbio def. Zak Cummings via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)

Trevor Smith def. Joe Gigliotti via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 30-26)

Maryna Moroz def. Danielle Taylor via split decision (28-29, 29-28, 30-27)

Court McGee def. Dominique Steele via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Marcin Tybura def. Viktor Pesta via KO (head-kick) at :53 of Round 2

David Teymur def. Jason Novelli via KO (strike) at 1:25 of Round 2

Teruto Ishihara def. Horacio Gutierrez via TKO (strikes) at 2:32 of Round 1

Cub Swanson def. Tatsuya Kawajiri via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

Justin Ledet def. Chase Sherman via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

The post UFC Fight Night 92: Recap, Winners, Bonuses appeared first on MMA Convert.

Cub Swanson will try to derail the hype train of “The Korean Superboy” when they face off at UFC 206 this December.

Set for December 10 from Toronto, the card features light heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier vs. Anthony Johnson.

Swanson (23-7) has picked up two straight wins after losses to Frankie Edgar and Max Holloway. His opponent, Dooho Choi, is 15-1 overall and has won all three of his UFC fights. Included in that is an overall 13-fight win streak with eight knockouts.

Below is the current lineup:

UFC Light Heavyweight Championship
Daniel Cormier (c) vs. Anthony Johnson

Flyweight: Zach Makovsky vs. John Moraga

Lightweight: John Makdessi vs. Lando Vannata

Lightweight: Olivier Aubin-Mercier vs. Drew Dober

Lightweight: Rustam Khabilov vs. Jason Saggo

Strawweight: Valerie Letourneau vs. Poliana Potelho

Light Heavyweight: Misha Cirkunov vs. Nikita Krylov

Featherweight: Cub Swanson vs. Dooho Choi

The post UFC 206: Cub Swanson Meets Dooho Choi appeared first on MMA Convert.

Before he meets Artem Lobov Saturday night at UFC Fight Night 108, check out this fight replay between Cub Swanson and Dennis Siver.

The bout was part of UFC 162 back in 2013.

The post UFC Fight Night 108 Free Fight With Cub Swanson appeared first on MMA Convert.

The UFC touched down in Nashville Saturday night for UFC Fight Night 108.

In the main event from the Bridgestone Arena, Cub Swanson kept his place inside the Top-5 at featherweight with a convincing decision win over Artem Lobov.

While many believed Swanson would have his way with Lobov, the Irish fighter – and close friend of UFC lightweight champion Conor McGregor – showed his worth by going the distance.

Swanson almost locked in an early choke, but Lobov fought it off. He did the same in the final moments of the fight, leaving the Octagon with the respect of Swanson.

Al Iaquinta made a triumphant return to the Octagon, handing Diego Sanchez a first round knockout defeat. Iaquinta, a former runner-up on The Ultimate Fighter, had not fought since early 2015 due to contract issues, but had no problem picking up his fifth consecutive win.

Ovince Saint Preux locked up his second submission win via Von Flue choke, forcing Marcos Rogerio de Lima to tap in the second round. OSP also picked up a portion of de Lima’s fight purse after the Brazilian missed weight.

John Dodson made sure to keep his name on the short list at bantamweight, earning a decision over Eddie Wineland.

Stevie Ray overcame a slow start to earn the biggest win of his career, as the lightweight bested Joe Lauzon. While one judge ruled the fight a draw, the other two gave it to Ray.

Mike Perry kicked off the main card with a thrilling performance, stopping Jake Ellenberger in his tracks in the second round. Perry connected with an elbow that floored Ellenberger, giving him a 10th career finish – and third inside the Octagon.

The prelims featured four decisions and three finishes. Thales Leites stopped Sam Alvey’s four-fight win streak, earning a decision on FOX Sports 2.

Brandon Moreno, though, had the biggest win of the under-card, as he scored a submission vs. Dustin Ortiz. Moreno, just 23 years old, now owns three consecutive wins inside the Octagon.

Scott Holtzman and Danielle Taylor each picked up decisions, as Holtzman downed Michael McBride and Taylor bested Jessica Penne.

On the UFC Fight Pass prelims, Alexis Davis defeated Cindy Dandois, Bryan Barberena finished Joe Proctor and Hector Sandoval bested Matt Schnell.

Complete results are below:

Cub Swanson def. Artem Lobov via unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 50-45)

Al Iaquinta def. Diego Sanchez via KO (strike) at 1:38 of Round 1

Ovince Saint Preux def. Marcos Rogerio de Lima via submission (Von Flue choke) at 2:11 of Round 2

John Dodson def. Eddie Wineland via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

Stevie Ray def. Joe Lauzon via majority decision (29-27, 28-27, 28-28)

Mike Perry def. Jake Ellenberger via KO (elbow) at 1:05 of Round 2

Thales Leites def. Sam Alvey via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Brandon Moreno def. Dustin Ortiz via technical submission (rear-naked choke) at 4:06 of Round 2

Scott Holtzman def. Michael McBride via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)

Danielle Taylor def. Jessica Penne via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Alexis Davis def. Cindy Dandois via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Bryan Barberena def. Joe Proctor via TKO (strikes) at 3:30 of Round 1

Hector Sandoval def. Matt Schnell via KO (strike) at 4:24 of Round 1

The post UFC Fight Night 108: Complete Results appeared first on MMA Convert.

Check out 360-degree highlights from the recent UFC Fight Night: Swanson vs. Lobov event.

The post UFC Fight Night 108 Virtual Reality Highlights appeared first on MMA Convert.

The UFC set up shop for the first time in Fresno, California from the Save Mart Center Saturday night for UFC Fight Night 123.

Brian Ortega took advantage of the main event spotlight, jumping into a guillotine choke and submitting Cub Swanson on FOX Sports 1.

Ortega showed off his skills, as he was able to get the tap from the veteran Swanson, improving to 13-0 in his career with a no-contest. The rising prospect has now finished Swanson, Renato Moicano and Clay Guida in his last three fights.

Swanson (25-8) had his four-fight win streak come to a halt. Each of his last three losses have come via submission, as UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway scored a third round victory via guillotine choke over him in 2015 and ex-UFC lightweight titleholder Frankie Edgar locked in a neck crank in 2014.

In the co-main event, Gabriel Benitez got back on track with a decision vs. Jason Knight. The victory moved his record to 20-6 overall and 3-2 inside the Octagon, with Knight (20-4) suffering his second consecutive loss.

Former World Series of Fighting champion Marlon Moraes finally showed off the skills that made him a top free agent, landing a devastating knee on Aljamain Sterling just over a minute into their bantamweight clash that ended the fight.

Moraes (20-5-1) has now won back-to-back fights after falling to Raphael Assuncao in his UFC debut. Sterling (14-3) had his two-fight win streak halted with the loss.

Scott Holtzman scored his second consecutive decision, besting Darrell Horcher in a lightweight contest. Holtman (11-2) moved his UFC record to 4-2 as he recorded six takedowns and out-landed Horcher, 137-41.

Eryk Anders, a former standout for the University of Alabama football team, remained unbeaten with a decision victory over Markus Perez. Anders is now 10-0 overall and 2-0 inside the Octagon.

Benito Lopez scored himself a decision to begin the main card, besting Albert Morales.

The post UFC Fight Night 123: Complete Results From Fresno appeared first on MMA Convert.