Tensions are running high between welterweight contender Joaquin Buckley and UFC veteran Cub Swanson as both prepare for their respective fights at UFC Tampa this Saturday.
Buckley is set to headline the event in a clash against Colby Covington, while Swanson will face Billy Quarantillo in the co-main event. With both fighters sharing the card, their simmering feud became a hot topic during media day.
I stand by what I said,” Swanson remarked when asked about the ongoing beef. “I don’t think the younger guys should be disrespecting the older guys. That’s just what I think. I believe the people who paved the way always deserve respect.
I’m sure I will [run into him], and I’m not going to back down from what I said," Swanson continued. "I was a fan of his until he opened his mouth a little bit. I’ve got no ill will towards him, but, like I said, I think people need to show respect.
The animosity began when Buckley claimed he could knock out a prime Georges St-Pierre, a statement that struck a nerve with Swanson, a close friend and former teammate of the legendary welterweight and middleweight champion. "Killer" came to GSP’s defense, which prompted Buckley to respond with harsh words, including questioning the entirety of the veteran's career.
The situation escalated when Buckley referred to Swanson using derogatory language. This weekend's co-headlined addressed this directly.
An apology for calling me a ‘ho,’ because that’s one thing I’m not,” he stated. “I’ve stayed true to myself, I’ve stayed true to who I am my entire career, so the name-calling was just a little over the line. But I was a fan of his until that moment.
Despite the friction, both fighters remain focused on their respective matchups, but the tension adds an extra layer of drama to an already highly anticipated UFC Tampa card.