

While the prelims ended with five KOs and two submissions, expectations were quite high from the main card. Without a doubt, the co-main event was not a disappointment. The 39-year-old Cub Swanson, defeated the Canadian warrior, Hakeem Dawodu, via unanimous decision. Although Swanson’s age halted his prowess, it couldn’t prevent him from claiming the victory.
The fight began with both the fighters aiming to turn over their previous losses. Without a touch of gloves, Dawodu tried to begin with a push kick, but Swanson was quick to evade. After dodging a few more strikes, ‘Killer’ went in with a jab and a cross that created a bit of distance between the fighters. Dawodu kept throwing combos, and the American showcased his agility. The first round with the scorecard inclining in favor of Dawodu.
Coachella Valley, STAND UP!! 🌴@CubSwanson is walking away with the victory tonight! #UFCVegas78 pic.twitter.com/Z1uzMzTFu5
— UFC (@ufc) August 13, 2023
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Round two had the same energy as its predecessor. The World Muay Thai gold medalist kept on throwing hits, but Swanson intercepted with some thunderous uppercuts. Soon, the fighters clinched and moved towards the fence. Although they separated pretty quickly, Dawodu impressed the crowd with powerful knees. After exchanging a few more blows, they clinched once again. With seconds left for the bell, Swanson escaped Dawodu’s grip and executed powerful combinations.
The final round had both the fighters on guard, but with higher energy. Soon after exchanging some hits, they two clinched again. However, an accidental low induced a time out. Halfway through the round, Dawodu landed another low. After yet another timeout, the duo clashed again, only for Swanson to takedown his opponent. Dawodu kept Swanson in his guard, but the American was quick to turn it into a half guard. In the final seconds, Swanson attempted an RNC, but things didn’t end with a tap out. With a win for Swanson, the fans felt like it was a robbery for Dawodu.
UFC world reacts to the fight between Cub Swanson and Hakeem Dawodu at UFC Vegas 78
Even though the Swanson’s age stopped him from showing his best, he showed why he deserved a place at the UFC hall of Fame. But the fans’ opinion didn’t align with the judges.
The fans simply believed that the Canadian was robbed of his victory.
Disgusting decision
— Blake Stackpoole (@BlakeStackpoole) August 13, 2023
Robbery terrible judgeing
— Trizkoh (@Trizkoh) August 13, 2023
Few of the fans pointed out that even the ‘Killer’ thought it was Dawodu’s win.
Bro congratulated Hakeem, the coaches n everything, robbery just cost me money
— Strypes (@FXStrypes) August 13, 2023
Even cub thought he lost🤣
— Scripty (@realscripty) August 13, 2023
Even cub sayed he didn't win 🤦♂️. Refs stay fucking up careers.
— Kansas City Chiefs Fan/ MMA Fanatic (@CHIEFS2GOATED) August 13, 2023
One fan taggedDana White and declared that the UFC judges were getting harder and harder to understand.
@danawhite these judges are getting hard to understand , no way you can rewatch this and say anywhere but in the 3rd that cub was winning the fight.. decisions like this makes UFC hard to watch, let alone bet on. Fix this garbage.
— Big Jb (@Jbland123) August 13, 2023
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These judges costing me too much money lately. Can’t even imagine how the fighter on the wrong end of these decisions must feel
— Ashley Hurlow (@HurlowAshley) August 13, 2023
Showing his humble side, Swanson declared he didn’t do enough to deserve the win during the post-fight interview. Undeniably, the decision left the fans in great disappointment. The respect for Swanson was also quite high.
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What are your thoughts on the fight? Did the fight proceed as per your predictions? Let us know in the comments down below.
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