Cub Swanson is contemplating retirement after a successful UFC career, highlighted by a recent knockout win, but he hasn’t made a final decision yet, wanting to avoid hasty choices and remain open to future opportunities.
Cub Swanson hasn’t yet made up his mind about retiring from fighting. If his knockout win at UFC Tampa marks the end, he’s quite content with his achievements.
Approaching his co-main event bout against Billy Quarantillo last weekend, the 41-year-old veteran hinted at a potential retirement. After delivering another Fight of the Night performance with a stunning third-round knockout, Swanson admits it might be the perfect career finale. Yet, he’s not ready to make that decision just yet.
“It really is [the perfect ending],” Swanson shared with MMA Fighting. “I feel the opposite of what people are saying. With an ending like that, it makes it even harder to say yeah, maybe I’ll do another one because that made me happy.” He feels less inclined to jump back into action, acknowledging the stress fighting brings.
Waking up the next day after a fight is stressful. Close friends and family text him, asking how he feels. His reply? “41.” It’s a reminder of his age. Despite this, he’s thrilled with how things unfolded and remains open to future possibilities.
It’s astonishing to realize Swanson has been in the fight game for over 20 years, debuting in 2004. For the past 17 years, he’s competed under the UFC banner—initially in World Extreme Cagefighting before transitioning to the UFC after WEC’s merger.
Reflecting on his career, Swanson takes pride in staying relevant among top fighters for so long. Many big names come and go quickly, but Swanson’s been a fixture in the UFC family for nearly two decades. This longevity is one reason why he’s at peace with potentially calling it quits now.
“The sport has evolved so much,” Swanson explained. “When I first started fighting, certain moves didn’t exist.” He’s had to adapt along with these changes.
Swanson recalls being one of the first fighters to train in an actual boxing gym. Before 2010, most relied on traditional Muay Thai. Boxing wasn’t a significant part of MMA until later due to coaches’ reluctance to train MMA fighters. Adapting required dedication—hats off to those who’ve done it.
Having seen many fighters retire only to return later, Swanson wants to avoid putting himself or his family through such turmoil. He advises against making emotional decisions post-fight.
Laying down his gloves after winning last Saturday might’ve seemed ideal. However, Swanson needs time to ponder what could be life’s most crucial choice.
“I want to make sure I’m done,” he said. “I don’t want to be wishy-washy and keep coming back.” When he decides it’s over, it’ll be final—that’s why he’s taking his time.
If he’s honest, there’s a chance fans have already witnessed his last UFC appearance—even if he’s not entirely certain yet. The door remains slightly ajar for an irresistible offer, but if none comes, he’d be satisfied with his Tampa knockout as his Hall of Fame finale.
“At some point I’ve got to say when’s enough, enough?” Swanson mused. “I’m pretty content with what I have right now… unless something special comes up, I think I’m good.”