Before his upcoming bout at UFC Seattle on March 28, Michael Chiesa hinted that this might be his final fight inside the Octagon.
The UFC returns to Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle with a main event featuring former middleweight champ Israel Adesanya versus Bo Nickal. Also on the card is veteran welterweight contender Michael Chiesa, who will face Carlston Harris in his first fight since June of last year. Nicknamed “Maverick,” Chiesa has won his last three fights, snapping a previous three-match losing streak and proving he still has plenty to offer in the sport. However, at 38 years old, he has suggested retirement may be on the horizon.
Chiesa has been with the UFC since 2012, earning his contract through The Ultimate Fighter. Early in his career, he challenged for the lightweight title before moving up to welterweight. Heading into UFC Seattle, where he hopes to notch a fourth consecutive win, Chiesa admitted this could be his final fight—a “perfect way to go out.” He shared with The Ariel Helwani Show that the number 22 holds special significance for him, honoring his late grandfather Derrell, whose racetrack team also bore the number. Chiesa explained that his 22nd UFC fight falling on his parents’ anniversary feels like a meaningful sign, and while uncertain about his next steps, he feels a sense of closure if he retires now.
He added, “Martial artists often retire either too soon or too late—rarely perfectly. I’d prefer to call it quits early, and 38 is not too early, even if you’re still in good shape.”
Although this may be Chiesa’s last fight as a competitor, his presence within the UFC isn’t ending. He plans to remain active as a broadcaster and expert analyst during fight nights, continuing to contribute to the sport from outside the cage.
Fan Take: Michael Chiesa’s potential retirement marks the closing of a significant chapter for a skilled and resilient fighter who’s been a staple in the UFC for over a decade. His transition to commentary keeps his deep knowledge and passion within the sport, which benefits fans and fighters alike by bridging the gap between competition and insight.
