Luke Rockhold has previously hinted at a potential return to mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2023 after his soft retirement from the sport just months ago.
The former UFC middleweight champion made a memorable return to the 185-pound division in a battle against Paulo Costa at UFC 278 last August. Rockhold ended up losing via unanimous decision, but it was one of the bravest performances of his career. He earned Fight of the Night honors as well as the well-deserved respect of opponents in combat.
Rockhold, who turned 38 last October, has now lost his last three trips to the Octagon dating back to 2018. This lack of success usually leads to a promotional pink slip for most fighters, but Rockhold is a true veteran of the MMA and a guy who will presumably always have a home in the UFC if he has the desire to compete.
Well, now it looks like the former UFC champion is eager to get back in the saddle in 2023 and see what he can do. On Friday, Rockhold posted the following photo and message to Instagram, giving fans hope for the New Year:
“Putting the old platform to the test. 2023 could get interesting,” Rockhold wrote.
It should be noted that Rockhold has had a rocky relationship with UFC and promotional chairman Dana White in the past, but if the former middleweight champion is serious about a return to action, the UFC is likely to answer the phone. After all, Rockhold is still a household name in these parts and a controversial figure who garners interest no matter who he’s up against.
What do you guys think? Do you want to see Rockhold return to action in 2023?
Let’s hear it!
#interesting
