Donald Cerrone, renowned for his impressive record and charismatic persona, is slowly but surely preparing for a return to the octagon in 2025. Cerrone, whose professional mixed martial arts (MMA) journey has been marked by highs and lows, officially hung up his gloves in July 2022 after a streak of seven consecutive losses. The once-prominent fighter, known for holding UFC records in various categories such as wins and bonuses, found himself grappling with diminishing motivation and a longing for a resurgence.
The Path to Comeback
Today, Cerrone is reigniting the flame that once made him a fan favorite. Acknowledging the arduous road ahead, he has taken significant steps towards making his comeback a reality. Key to this process is his recent re-entry into the UFC’s anti-doping program, a crucial component for any fighter looking to compete again. In a candid conversation on the “Pacman Jones Show,” Cerrone shared, “I just re-entered the testing pool. I have to be six months clean. Probably June, July we will make the comeback. Coming back for two more. Just two more.” Cerrone is adamant about completing his goal of reaching 50 professional fights under the UFC banner, vowing to his wife that this would mark the end of his journey in MMA.
Despite Cerrone’s enthusiasm, the MMA community remains wary of his return, especially given his previous admissions regarding performance-enhancing drugs. His time away from competition has been observed with suspicion, leading some industry insiders to label it a “steroid vacation.” Yet, the UFC seems unbothered by his past, as evidence of his commitment is reflected in his swift compliance with anti-doping regulations; Cerrone has already provided a clean sample according to the Drug Free Sport database.
Additionally, another intriguing aspect of Cerrone’s comeback is his potential shift in weight class. Throughout his career, he primarily fought in the lightweight and welterweight divisions, but he has indicated a desire to tackle challenges in the middleweight category. “I think it’ll be at ’85 is what I’m coming back at,” Cerrone remarked, hinting at an overwhelming desire for a fresh start and new challenges.
While the road ahead for Donald Cerrone is fraught with challenges, his determination to return to the UFC spotlight signifies the enduring spirit of a fighter who once captivated audiences across the globe. As he embarks on this journey, fans have both hope and skepticism—will Cerrone reclaim his former glory, or will the return prove to be another chapter in a storied career that has seen its share of turbulence? Regardless of the outcome, Cerrone’s resolve and commitment to completing his ultimate goal of 50 fights encapsulates the resilient nature of mixed martial arts athletes and keeps the door wide open for what could be an exhilarating comeback.