MMA legend Georges Saint-Pierre denies speculation regarding his comeback to the UFC cage.
MMA Legend Georges St-Pierre Slams The Brakes on Octagon Return
Ever since Canadian UFC champ Georges St-Pierre (26-2), King of the welterweight and middleweight divisions, last clashed in the octagon with Michael "The Count" Bisping back in 2017, fans have been buzzing with anticipation about a dream bout with Khabib Nurmagomedov. But alas, both fighters have stood firm on their retirement decisions. Speculation about St-Pierre squaring off against another opponent has also landed on the ropes, as the 42-year-old GSP unequivocally declares that his days in professional MMA are behind him.
"Yo, I've always told my kid that I ain't bustin' my ass in that cage past 40, man. Professional cage fighting? Nah, dude. I won't do it for my legacy," the former champ said during a UFC Fight Pass International media scrum, putting an end to rumors about his appearance at UFC 300.
The Retired King
St-Pierre's retirement from MMA competition has been long-lasting, with his last official step-back coming in 2019 due to health issues, including ulcerative colitis[3], a condition he developed after moving up to the middleweight division. However, don't think that the competitive spirit has left him. He still gets his kicks from sparring, training with up-and-coming fighters, and tackling entrepreneurial ventures[1][3].
The Possibility of a Comeback
While St-Pierre isn't keen on proving himself in the MMA world again, he hasn't shut the door entirely on combat sports entirely. He is open to participating in non-traditional ways, such as grappling or charity events, where the risks are lower but the competition remains fun[1][2]. He's also focused on rehabbing his shoulder and aiming to be at 100%, which aligns with his interest in taking part in low-risk competitions for charitable causes[1][2].
In short, St-Pierre might not be back in the octagon, but there's still a chance you'll see him getting his fight on, just not in the high-intensity of the MMA world.
Despite St-Pierre's emphatic statement about his retirement from MMA, there is still a sliver of hope for fans longing to witness the former UFC champ compete, as he has expressed interest in engaging in non-traditional combat sports events, such as grappling or charity matches. This opens up the possibility that we might see the UFC legend, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and St-Pierre lock horns in a less intense, yet competitive setting. However, St-Pierre's Health issues and shoulder rehab are factors that will determine his comeback in any capacity, be it in MMA or other sports.
