UFC on ESPN 63 took place in Tampa, Florida, showcasing a night of thrilling fights and significant outcomes. The event concluded with notable medical suspensions for several fighters, including Colby Covington, who received a 45-day suspension following his bout against Joaquin Buckley, who won via doctor stoppage.
Key Takeaways
- Colby Covington suspended for 45 days due to injury.
- Five fighters received indefinite medical suspensions.
- Joaquin Buckley remains undefeated in the welterweight division.
- Cub Swanson sets a new record for fight-night bonuses in the UFC.
Medical Suspensions Overview
The Florida Athletic Commission announced the medical suspensions following UFC Tampa. Here are the details:
- Colby Covington: 45 days suspension due to injury.
- Indefinite Suspensions: Five fighters, specifics not disclosed.
Despite the injuries, both Covington and Buckley were able to compete, with Buckley emerging victorious in a dramatic fashion. The fight ended in the third round when the doctor stopped the match due to a laceration on Covington.
Event Highlights
UFC Tampa was marked by several key performances:
- Joaquin Buckley defeated Colby Covington via TKO (doctor stoppage).
- Cub Swanson achieved a milestone by setting a new record for fight-night bonuses in UFC history.
- Piera Rodriguez, Davey Grant, and Miranda Maverick also secured victories in their respective bouts.
Notable Performances
- Cub Swanson: With his victory over Billy Quarantillo, Swanson tied Max Holloway for the most victories in UFC/WEC featherweight history.
- Joaquin Buckley: Improved his record to 6-0 since moving to the welterweight division, showcasing his striking prowess.
- Michael Johnson: Continued his legacy with a win over Ottman Azaitar, marking his 15th victory in the UFC.
Social Media Reactions
Following the event, fighters took to social media to express their thoughts and reactions:
- Winning Fighters: Many shared their excitement and gratitude for their victories.
- Losing Fighters: Some reflected on their performances and expressed determination to come back stronger.
Conclusion
UFC Tampa not only delivered exciting fights but also highlighted the ongoing challenges fighters face in the octagon. With medical suspensions in place, the focus now shifts to recovery and preparation for future bouts. The event solidified the competitive nature of the UFC and set the stage for upcoming matchups in the welterweight division and beyond.