Cub Swanson: ‘I’m Ready’

“Honestly, I’ve had so much going on with the build of my new gym and having all the other guys fight — I had Danny Silva and Lerryan Douglas fight right before me; we were kinda of all in a row — so it was a good distraction,” Swanson told UFC.com. “I was able to help them, they were helping me, and when we’re all in camp, it’s really hard not to work hard, and everything kind of came together by the end of camp, so I feel good. 

“I think my approach has really helped. I’ve been preparing for this for years, and now I’ve been quietly building one of the hottest fight teams coming up right now, so it’s perfect timing that I step back and let them shine.”

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Swanson pointed to obvious post-career success stories like Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan and the late Kobe Bryant as examples of athletes that thrived after retiring but also noted the importance of studying how athletes have transitioned from one level to the next — high school to college to the pros — and how many struggle as a result of the changes between the different tiers.

While Saturday will make the end of his days as a competitor, Swanson will still be an ever-present figure around the UFC, which wasn’t necessarily the plan when he started thinking about retirement several years ago.

“I really did envision just walking away from the sport at some point and doing something completely different,” he said. “I’ve been fortunate enough to be put in this position and help other people do what I did. I think that is so cool to be able to help other people achieve their dreams.”

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For now, though, the focus is on him, and this weekend’s swan song against Landwehr.

When the fight was announced, everyone in the industry collectively recognized “Nate the Train” as a terrific final dance partner for Swanson as the 37-year-old Tennessee native has the same penchant for putting on entertaining fights every time he steps into the Octagon.

Swanson sees that side too, of course, but also has a little deeper perspective on why closing things out against Landwehr is a fitting way to ride off into the sunset.

“As you get older, you think about these things more in-depth,” began Swanson. “I think the fact that he’s a wild fighter, he’s tough as nails — I believe he just became a father — and you know he’s coming at an age where he’s gotta be thinking about things… We’re at a similar point in our careers — I’m a little further, but that makes for a better matchup in my mind.

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“I think the fans just see violence, and that’s fine — I’m sure they’ll get it — but I’m excited for the fight,” he added. “I think we match up well, and I’m sure we’ll probably get a beer together afterwards.”

Asked about stepping out of the Octagon for the final time at the conclusion of his tussle with Landwehr, the gravity of the moment once again sat heavy with Swanson, who couldn’t help but tear up once again.

“Obviously it’s gonna be hard,” he said. “It’ll be emotional, but I’ll just be happy gettin’ in there. Going in there and having fun — that’s all I’m worried about.”