UFC Rankings Update: Biggest Winners and Losers After UFC Tampa

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UFC Rankings Update: Biggest Winners And Losers After UFC Tampa

Biggest Winners

  1. Joaquin Buckley
    • Reason for Improvement: Buckley secured his sixth straight win in the 170-pound division, with four of those wins coming via (technical) knockout. His victory over Colby Covington is considered the biggest of his career, significantly boosting his standing in the welterweight rankings.
    • Impact on Rankings: This win is likely to move Buckley up significantly in the 170-pound division, possibly even into the top five, given his impressive streak and the caliber of his recent victories.
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  1. Cub Swanson
    • Reason for Improvement: Swanson delivered a spectacular walk-off knockout win over Billy Quarantillo, showcasing his striking prowess and resilience. This win, along with the $50,000 post-fight bonus, adds to his legacy as a consistent performer in the featherweight division.
    • Impact on Rankings: While Swanson's alternating win-loss record over the past few years has kept him from climbing higher in the rankings, this knockout win could see him move up a few spots, especially if he continues to deliver impressive performances.
  2. Manel Kape
    • Reason for Improvement: Despite the controversy involving groin strikes, Kape ultimately emerged victorious in his fight against Bruno Silva. His performance, despite the fouls, demonstrated his ability to handle pressure and deliver when it matters most.
    • Impact on Rankings: Kape's win is likely to see him move up in the flyweight rankings, potentially into the top five, given the competitive nature of the division.

Biggest Losers

  1. Colby Covington
    • Reason for Decline: Covington suffered a one-sided defeat to Joaquin Buckley, marking his second consecutive loss. This loss comes after a year-long hiatus following his defeat to Leon Edwards. The fight highlighted his struggle to maintain his previous form and competitiveness.
    • Impact on Rankings: Covington's decline in performance is likely to result in a drop in the welterweight rankings. Given his recent losses, he may fall out of the top 10, which would be a significant drop from his previous position.
  2. Ottman Azaitar
    • Reason for Decline: Azaitar suffered his third consecutive loss, all coming via strikes. This losing streak is a stark contrast to his earlier career where he was undefeated. His performance has raised questions about his ability to compete at a high level.
    • Impact on Rankings: Azaitar is likely to see a significant drop in the rankings, potentially out of the top 15, given his current form and the string of losses.
  3. Bruno Silva
    • Reason for Decline: Silva's fight against Manel Kape was marred by repeated groin strikes, which led to a point deduction and ultimately a loss. Despite his earlier rally, the fouls and the loss will impact his standing in the flyweight division.
    • Impact on Rankings: Silva's ranking is likely to suffer due to the loss and the controversial nature of the fight. He may see a drop in the rankings, although the extent will depend on how the UFC and fans perceive the incident.
Overall, the UFC Tampa event has resulted in significant changes in the rankings, with Joaquin Buckley and Cub Swanson emerging as notable winners, while Colby Covington and Ottman Azaitar have seen their rankings decline.