Earlier this year, former UFC welterweight Jorge Masvidal decided to hang up the mixed martial arts gloves after nearly 20 years in the sport.
In 2019, Masvidal had his best year in MMA, rising to stardom and winning the BMF title against Nate Diaz at UFC 244.
However, that was the last win of his career, and he subsequently fell to a four-fight losing streak. His final defeat was against Gilbert Burns by unanimous decision at UFC 287 on April 8.
After his bout with “Durinho,” Jorge Masvidal bid farewell to the UFC fans by announcing his MMA. In an interview with ESPN’s Marc Raimondi shortly after making the decision, Masvidal was asked if he would compete again, and “Gamebred” shared that he decided to retire after noticing his reflexes were getting slower.
However, now it seems Masvidal is interested in competing again — but inside a boxing ring.
Jorge Masvidal Shows Interest In Boxing, But Needs UFC Permission
Jorge Masvidal recently sat down for an interview on YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul’s show. He was asked whether he would compete in boxing, and whole Masvidal admitted interest in the venture, he noted one sizable hurdle.
“Definitely, I would box. That is something that I wanted to do, especially since I started progressing more in my skillset and I have a pro boxing fight,” Masvidal said. “It took place like 14, 15 years ago. Boxing was like, my first love, so I would definitely do a boxing match if the UFC permits me. They would have to give me permission. They’d have to be like, ‘Yeah, go do your thing, you know.’ If not, can’t do no boxing match.”
UFC fans may see Masvidal’s problem as similar to former UFC welterweight and middleweight champion George St-Pierre.
The UFC blocked St-Pierre from competing against Oscar De La Hoya in 2021 because the Canadian was still under contract with the promotion. That was despite the fact that he was retired.
Jorge Masvidal is now seemingly facing the same problem, and won’t be able to compete in boxing or MMA in a different company without permission from the UFC or a release from his contract with the organization.
While Masvidal can’t compete in pugilism, he has become a promoter for his own boxing company. He may not give him the same feeling as stepping into a ring, but he can still be involved in the sport and grow his brand.