UFC legend Donald Cerrone is gearing up for a surprising return to the Octagon, setting his sights on a middleweight debut in 2025. The 41-year-old fan favorite, who retired in 2022, has officially re-entered the UFC’s drug testing pool, signaling his intent to make a comeback after a brief hiatus from professional fighting.
In a recent interview on the “Pacman Jones Show,” Cerrone revealed his plans to fight two more times in the UFC, with a specific goal in mind. “I just re-entered the testing pool,” Cerrone stated. “I have to be six months clean. Probably June, July we will make the comeback. Coming back for two more. Just two more. I want 50 fights in the UFC (under Zuffa)”.
UFC Hall of Famer @CowboyCerrone has revealed that he plans to end his short-lived retirement in pursuit of racking up 50 UFC fights 🤠 pic.twitter.com/ypbuSYVbLZ
— Uncrowned (@uncrownedcombat) December 27, 2024
The former lightweight and welterweight contender’s decision to return at middleweight comes as a surprise to many fans and analysts. Cerrone explained, “I think it’ll be at ’85 is what I’m coming back at. We’ll see my weight as I start to pick up my training”. This move up in weight class could present new challenges and opportunities for the veteran fighter.
Cerrone’s Candid Approach to PED Use and Comeback
One of the most notable aspects of Cerrone’s comeback announcement is his openness about his use of performance-enhancing substances during his retirement. The fighter has been candid about his “steroid vacation,” which has drawn both criticism and interest from the MMA community.
Cerrone’s transparency about his PED use during retirement and his willingness to re-enter the testing pool for a clean comeback sets an interesting precedent in the sport. It remains to be seen how this approach will be received by fans, fellow fighters, and UFC management.
The Road to 50 Fights
Cerrone’s goal of reaching 50 fights under the Zuffa banner is a testament to his longevity and passion for the sport. With 48 total bouts in his career within the UFC and WEC, “Cowboy” is looking to cement his legacy as one of the most active fighters in the promotion’s history.
The fighter’s wife plays a crucial role in this comeback, as Cerrone mentioned, “I promised the wife no matter what happens, no matter the outcomes – two more and that’s it”. This commitment to a limited return suggests that Cerrone is focused on achieving his goals while also considering his long-term well-being and family commitments.
As Cerrone prepares for his return, questions arise about potential opponents and how he will fare in the middleweight division. The UFC has yet to comment officially on Cerrone’s comeback plans, but his return is sure to generate significant interest among MMA fans.
Cerrone’s career has been marked by his willingness to fight anyone, anytime, and his potential middleweight debut in 2025 continues this trend. While some may question the wisdom of returning to professional fighting at 41, Cerrone’s determination and clear goals suggest that he is approaching this comeback with a focused mindset.
As the MMA world awaits more details on Cerrone’s return, one thing is certain, the sport will be watching closely to see if “Cowboy” can successfully make the transition to middleweight and achieve his goal of 50 fights under the Zuffa banner. Whether this comeback will add to his legacy or serve as a final chapter in his storied career remains to be seen, but Cerrone’s return is sure to bring excitement and intrigue to the UFC in 2025.
