Ex-UFC star Masvidal to return for boxing match 'early next year'

Jorge Masvidal will return to competition - but not in MMA - in 2024.

The former UFC welterweight star told ESPN's Marc Raimondi on Thursday that he's planning to compete in a boxing match "early next year." An opponent isn't set.

"I can tell you somebody is going to get killed," Masvidal said.

The 38-year-old retired from MMA in April after a loss to Gilbert Burns at UFC 287, which took place in his hometown Miami. He has focused on being a promoter in recent months, holding boxing and bare-knuckle MMA events. Masvidal never closed the door entirely on a return to fighting.

"I love this sport so f-----g much," Masvidal said. "I love it so much. ... Since 11, 12 years old, this is all I did."

Masvidal remains under contract with the UFC, and it's unclear if an arrangement has been made for him to be allowed to box, according to Raimondi.

Masvidal said earlier in 2023 that he retired from MMA because he noticed his skill set had deteriorated in recent years. He said Thursday that his "reaction time" isn't what it used to be but added, "I'm still fast, I'm still explosive, (and) I have good endurance."

Masvidal was among the most popular fighters in the UFC, challenging for the welterweight title twice. He's the original BMF champion, beating Nate Diaz for that mythical belt in 2019. Masvidal also owns the quickest knockout win in UFC history. He retired after four straight losses.