Gastelum 'truly embarrassed' after quick loss
Kelvin Gastelum says he's "truly embarrassed" after his 78-second loss in the UFC Fight Night co-main event on Saturday.
The former interim title challenger fell short against Jack Hermansson in a pivotal middleweight bout, which took place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Hermansson secured a heel hook after Gastelum tried to get up from top position, and the latter was forced to tap out.
Truly embarrassed guys. I’m sorry. My team, my family @UFC @danawhite @Mickmaynard2 You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so u can know who u are, what u can rise from, how u can still come out of it.
— #OnAmission4Gold (@KelvinGastelum) July 19, 2020
Gastelum, who's ranked No. 7 in the division, entered the clash riding a two-fight skid. He likely needed to get back on track to remain a top contender.
Hermansson, meanwhile, returned to the win column after a devastating loss to Jared Cannonier last year. The No. 6-ranked contender is now 5-1 in his past six outings.