A UFC free fight – highlighting the loser? Makes sense with Dooho Choi vs. Cub Swanson

An unforgettable 2016 fight between Dooho Choi and Cub Swanson apparently forced the UFC digital team to rethink its promotional process.

Prior to scheduled events, UFC officials often release “free fights” on YouTube. They usually feature an upcoming headliner or co-headliner in a past victory.

With Choi, though, the team highlighted one of his losses, though it was hardly a typical defeat.

At UFC 206 in December 2016, Choi – “The Korean Superboy” who’s won three straight fight-night bonuses to become a quick fan favorite – fought perennial contender Swanson in a bout that earned widespread “Fight of the Year” consideration. And for good reason. The back-and-fourth barnburner resulted in a decision victory for Swanson, but both fighters were lauded for their toughness in this scrap.

Check out that full bout above.

And catch Choi (14-2 MMA, 3-1 UFC), who returns from a lengthy layoff due to injuries, back in action in UFC Fight Night 124’s headliner, where he takes on featherweight vet Jeremy Stephens (26-14 MMA, 13-13 UFC).

UFC Fight Night 124 takes place Jan. 14 at Scottrade Center in St. Louis, and it airs on FS1 following prelims on UFC Fight Pass.

For more on UFC Fight Night 124, check out the UFC Rumors section of the site.