LAS VEGAS, NV – OCTOBER 15: (LR) Jonathan Martinez kicks the Swanson Cup in a lightweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX on October 15, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Butare/Zuffa LLC)
UFC Vegas 62: Jonathan Martinez defeated Cobb Swanson.
Jonathan Martinez defeated the Swanson Cup via TKO (leg kick), Round 2-4:19 at UFC Vegas 62 on Saturday, October 15, 2022, live from UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada.
“I’ve worked hard for this and it’s paying off. Just trying to get better every day. I want to get this fight,” Martinez said in an interview after the fight with Paul Felder “I know Dominic Cruz is here and I want to fight that fight.” Brendan Fitzgerald Cruz asked On his opinion on the call Cruz was complementing Martinez but did not commit to a potential fight.
Martinez pushed the action early but slipped into a kick attempt and clashed with the fence. Swanson attacked with a pair of leg kicks. Martinez returned with a physical kick while the two continued to trade. Swanson changes levels and drops the first ending to the fight. Martinez made his way to his feet. The two continued to exchange strikes and kicks. Martinez dropped his knee heavily with just over 10 seconds remaining in the round. His knee fell off Swanson and Martinez came in to finish landing several hits and forcing Swanson to cover up until the horn sounded. Referee Herb Dean gave Swanson the edge of the doubt, allowing Swanson to see the second round.
Martinez exploded from his corner and knocked Swanson down again. On the ground, Swanson was able to slow down the fight and eventually work his way back to his feet. The two fighters once again exchange powerful punches and kicks. Martinez brought down Swanson with a powerful leg kick but Swanson was able to stand up again. Damage occurred. Martinez landed with another strong leg. Immediately, Swanson fell in pain and rolled over. Martinez advanced and fired a shot, but Dean stopped the fight.
Martinez made his UFC debut in 2018 and has steadily risen through the ranks. The 28-year-old Los Angeles native has entered the UFC Apex in three straight fights and won five of his previous six fights. The victory over Swanson is the biggest of Martinez’s career and makes him a fighter to watch him move forward.
Swanson has been a fixture on the UFC roster since his first promotional appearance on November 12, 2011. Saturday’s fight marked 22nd place in the UFC Octagon for Swanson, who turns 39 next month. Swanson entered Saturday’s competition with three wins in the last four games. Despite losing his first bantamweight debut, Swanson will be looking to make a comeback in his next fight.
