After the co-main event with Luke Rockhold vs Paulo Costa on the UFC 278 main card Usman vs. Edwards. Luke had some endearing words for the crowd as he removed his gloves. Rockhold after losing to Costa by decision was very emotional in his post fight interview saying he doesn’t have it anymore and he “is old“. Luke was not able to get a word out he was so emotional.
The now 16-6 Luke Rockhold took on the now 14-2 Paulo “Borrachinha” Costa in a back and forth war where Paulo won by decision, 30-27 on the score cards. Rockhold was very tired during the match. It is possible it was due to his 3 year lay-off or the altitude in Salt Lake CIty, Utah. Luke put his hands on his knees several times during the bout as a way to get a breather.
There was a lot said about Rockhold, his chin, his game plan and why he chose Paulo Costa as an opponent. Even though he did not win the match he proved all the doubters wrong. He also proved what he said fight week that “he has never f**king quit on himself“.
Rockhold definitely turned his career around from the image of the fans being an arrogant type of guy, to the babyface. The best is when fighters leave the sport on their own accord and not face-up looking at the lights.
