Jorge Masvidal mum on UFC return specifics but says 'big word, big news' coming soon
The point of this year has been reached when Dana White and UFC matchmakers could start looking toward 2025. And as they consider who to book when, they’ll have a familiar name to work with.
That’s because Jorge Masvidal, who remained under contract with the UFC despite a brief retirement, has said he’s “definitely” coming back to compete in MMA. Masvidal told MMA Junkie Radio on Thursday that his conversations with White, executive Hunter Campbell and matchmakers have been productive.
“Good news, good stuff with them right now, my brothers,” Masvidal said. “Good stuff coming, news very soon.”
When pressed for specifics about his impending UFC return, Masvidal played it close to the vest.
“There’s a lot of options on the freaking table,” Masvidal said. “We haven’t narrowed down a specific one yet. Kind of waiting for a couple things to go here and fall there. Then I’m supposed to get big word, brother – big word, big news. I’ll tell you now: It’d be the biggest news of the year probably.”
Could that mean a potential showdown with Conor McGregor, who’s no longer tied to Michael Chandler? After all, Masvidal and McGregor have feuded in the past. But it’s anyone’s guess.
Masvidal said he’s back at American Top Team and has started training mixed martial arts again – and he’s feeling the soreness after focusing only on boxing for several months leading up to his boxing match with Nate Diaz. Masvidal said he’s pushing himself hard thanks to Bellator champion Johnny Eblen, who’s gearing up for a title-fight rematch against Fabian Edwards next month at PFL: Battle of the Giants.
“I’ve gotten some good, quality rounds with Johnny,” Masvidal said. “Johnny’s getting ready to scrap and, f*ck, he’s on another level right now. He’s hitting the gas pedal very hard. He’s a real nightmare at the gym right now for everyone that’s going with him. I’m never gonna name drop, but there’s a lot of guys Johnny’s going in there with, man, and he’s putting in good work. I think this guy’s gonna be a future UFC champion.”