Jorge Masvidal, the former BMF champion, is gearing up for a spectacular return to the UFC octagon, and he’s not pulling any punches when it comes to his preferred opponent. After a brief retirement and a foray into boxing, Masvidal is setting his sights on none other than the notorious Conor McGregor for his comeback fight.
Key Takeaways
- Jorge Masvidal plans to return to the UFC in April 2025
- Masvidal is targeting Conor McGregor as his primary opponent
- Leon Edwards is considered as an alternative opponent
- The potential fight could take place at a UFC event in Miami
- Masvidal promises a striking-focused battle if he faces McGregor
Jorge Masvidal wants to fight Connor McGregor in his UFC Return
Jorge Masvidal isn’t mincing words when it comes to his potential matchup with Conor McGregor. In a recent interview, Masvidal made his intentions crystal clear, stating, “I’d like for it to be Conor (McGregor) because I heard he also wants to fight on that same date.
He’s never mentioned my name because he knows I’ll rip his head off”. This aggressive callout sets the stage for what could be an explosive confrontation between two of the UFC’s most charismatic fighters.
Jorge Masvidal threatens to "rip" Conor McGregor's head off 😳
“I’d like for it to be Conor because I heard he also wants to fight on that same date,”
“He’s never mentioned my name because he knows I’ll rip his head off. However, if him and the UFC make that mistake, I’ll take… pic.twitter.com/n5OjTXyX1l
— Lewis Simpson (@LewisSimpsonMMA) November 21, 2024The McGregor Factor
Why McGregor
Masvidal’s choice of McGregor as an opponent isn’t just about personal rivalry. He recognizes the business aspect of the sport, acknowledging McGregor’s star power: “He knows I’m the best pay-per-view draw right behind him. He’s No. 1”. This matchup would undoubtedly be a blockbuster event for the UFC, potentially drawing massive viewership and pay-per-view buys.
Striking Showdown
If the fight with McGregor materializes, Masvidal promises a striking-focused battle. He boldly claims, “I won’t take him down. I’ll strike with him and take him out of this orbit”. This approach plays to both fighters’ strengths and could result in an electrifying stand-up war that fans would eagerly anticipate.
Plan B: Leon Edwards
While McGregor is Masvidal’s primary target, he’s not putting all his eggs in one basket. Leon Edwards, the current UFC Welterweight Champion, is also on Masvidal’s radar. The two have a history stemming from a backstage altercation in 2019, adding a layer of personal rivalry to a potential matchup.
Masvidal doesn’t mince words about Edwards either, stating, “If not, Leon Edwards. He and I have history, and it’s time to settle it. He’s not booked, and neither am I. Let’s go, sign the contract, and I’ll break your face”. This alternative matchup offers its own compelling narrative and could be just as enticing for fight fans.
The Comeback Trail
Retirement and Return
Masvidal’s journey back to the UFC is noteworthy. He announced his retirement from MMA in 2023 but has since competed in a boxing match against Nate Diaz in 2024. His planned return to the octagon in 2025 marks a significant comeback for the fighter known as “Gamebred.”
Timing and Location
The timing of Masvidal’s return is strategic. He’s eyeing a UFC pay-per-view event expected to take place in Miami in April 2025. This location holds special significance for Masvidal, a Miami native, and could provide him with a home-field advantage.
Masvidal’s Recent Record
It’s important to note that Masvidal is looking to bounce back from a challenging period in his career:
- Currently on a four-fight losing streak in MMA
- Last UFC victory was in November 2019
- Lost a boxing match to Nate Diaz in July 2023
Despite these setbacks, Masvidal’s star power and fighting style continue to make him a draw in the world of combat sports.
The Road Ahead
As Jorge Masvidal prepares for his UFC return, the MMA world watches with anticipation. Whether he faces Conor McGregor in a clash of striking titans or settles his score with Leon Edwards, Masvidal’s comeback is sure to be one of the most talked-about events in the UFC’s 2025 calendar.
Final Thoughts
Jorge Masvidal’s potential return to the UFC adds an exciting chapter to his storied career. His bold callouts of Conor McGregor and Leon Edwards demonstrate that he’s not just coming back to participate – he’s aiming for the top.
As the date draws nearer, fight fans will eagerly await news of who will stand across from Masvidal in the octagon. One thing is certain: when Jorge Masvidal steps back into the UFC, fireworks are guaranteed.
