One of the most distinctive fighters in the UFC is already contemplating retirement.
Dana White revealed that he hopes to see one UFC competitor depart the organization in 2025, sparking fan speculation about who he might be referring to.
It’s well-known that the UFC president hasn’t always agreed with every athlete competing in the Octagon.
Some fans speculated that a rematch between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev could be the key, depending on how certain fights unfold.
Another fighter mentioned by fans as a possible departure is uncertain whether he will continue competing in the UFC.
Latest news: Dana White’s top aide admits the UFC missed out on signing the hottest free agent in mixed martial arts.
Bryce Mitchell uncertain if UFC will offer him another fight
Bryce Mitchell earned a win last July by defeating Said Nurmagomedov, competing in the bantamweight division for the first time in his UFC career.
The ex-“The Ultimate Fighter” contestant ended a five-fight winning streak by beating Edson Barboza in 2022, having previously fought at featherweight.
Although his losses have only come against high-level fighters like Ilia Topuria, Josh Emmett, and Gian Silva, Mitchell’s career has seen significant disruptions recently.
His defeat to Silva at UFC 314 was a setback, especially since many fans supported him despite his controversial statements.
Known as “Thug Nasty,” Mitchell recently appeared on Tim Welch’s (Sean O’Malley’s coach) Redhawk recap where he was asked about his upcoming plans.
“Not really. At this stage, I’m just thankful for what I have. I’m open to anything and just want one more fight,” Mitchell said. “They might not offer me any more fights, and if that happens, I’ll keep working blue-collar jobs for the rest of my life.”
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Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 07: Bryce Mitchell is interviewed by Joe Rogan after his victory in a featherweight bout against Kron Gracie of Brazil during UFC 310 at T-Mobile Arena on December 07, 2024.
Dana White criticizes Bryce Mitchell for controversial public remarks
Many were surprised by Dana White’s firm response to Bryce Mitchell’s comments on the first episode of the ArkanSanity podcast.
The UFC president called Mitchell’s outburst “beyond disgusting” during a press conference held last January.
White labeled Mitchell “a fool” but clarified that no disciplinary action would be taken against him.
“It’s freedom of speech,” White explained. “That’s one of the great things about this sport. For those who dislike Bryce Mitchell, at least they’ll see him all over TV expressing his views.”
Fan Take: Bryce Mitchell’s uncertain future and Dana White’s reaction highlight the ongoing tension between fighters’ personal expressions and the UFC’s public image. How this unfolds could influence the sport’s handling of outspoken athletes and shape the landscape for both old and new stars.
