Donald Cerrone, a much-loved competing beast within the UFC arena, is reportedly strapping on his boots for what could be his final showdown. Renowned for his fearless ‘fight anyone, anytime, and anywhere’ mantra, he seems to have come to the conclusion that retirement doesn’t suit his adventurous spirit. The ‘Cowboy’, as he’s fondly nicknamed, last pulled off his gloves in July 2022, conceding to a tough submission defeat against Jim Miller, marking his sixth consecutive loss. The defeat had led to widespread speculation about the end of his professional career.
In an intriguing turn of events, Cerrone recently took to Instagram to unexpectedly announce his plans of a comeback. His post revealed that he plans to be back in the UFC ring for two more combats. It appears the magic number ’50’ is constantly poking him like an acerbic thorn sticking to his boots. Cerrone is determined to reach this coveted number, which represents the combined appearances in UFC and WEC fights.
Now, the circumstance becomes even more complex. In a surprising disclosure, Donald Cerrone confessed that he has been relying on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and several peptides since he announced his retirement. His candid admittance, albeit refreshing in its honesty, does present a significant obstacle to his ambitious comeback.
In order to rejoin the UFC’s stringent drug testing protocols, Cerrone, at the age of 41, should wholly renounce the use of these substances. The challenge ahead of him is enormous, but his determination to remain clean when stepping back into active competition remains unshaken.
The announcement of ‘Cowboy’s’ intended return to the UFC sparked a wave of reactions within the MMA community. Supporters, fellow fighters, and sports analysts found themselves caught amid the unexpected wave of his planned comeback. This comes just two years following his decision to retire. But it seems clear that Cerrone isn’t quite finished with his MMA journey yet.
Cerrone’s decision to step back into the ring yet again drew a broad spectrum of responses from his fan base. While some expressed concerns about the risk of further damage to his already tarnished record, others suggested that the TRT and steroids he had been utilizing would continue to influence his performance, even after discontinuation.
A minority of his supporters even suggested that Tony Ferguson, considering his similar age and competitive record, could be his suitable adversary. The myriad of responses to his decision underscored just how divisive Cerrone’s return to the ring has become.
One thing is certain in this whirlpool of differing opinions – Donald Cerrone’s imminent return has set the tongues of fight fans wagging. Irrespective of whether they eagerly anticipate his return, or would prefer that he continues to enjoy his retirement at his ranch, nobody can deny ‘Cowboy’s’ ability to provoke a spirited debate.