The world of UFC is abuzz with anticipations of a thrilling season in 2025 as talk of some of the biggest names in the sport possibly making a return gathers steam. Notably among the potential comebacks is that of former title contender Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone, who despite being 41 years old, is reportedly gearing up for another stint in the ring.
The rumors of Cerrone’s return are nothing short of intense, thanks to his decision to rejoin the drug testing pool which signals a potential return to professional fighting. This development has added a new twist to the exciting narrative surrounding UFC’s prospective plans for the upcoming season.
Cerrone stepped away from UFC in 2022, making news not only for his retirement but also for his candid admission of using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) post his departure from the sport. Moreover, he also underwent a hair transplant, thus marking a significant transformation in his life after fighting.
In a notable defiance of UFC President Dana White’s preferred path for him, Cerrone has opted for rejoining the drug testing routine ahead of his speculated resurgence into fighting. On a comeback trail, the former UFC lightweight and welterweight is reportedly looking to fight again in the summer of 2025.
Cerrone has been a strikingly busy fighter throughout his career, boasting a record of at least two battles annually. As per speculations, his return might be planned for either June or July with the objective of competing in two more fights, bringing his total UFC fight record to a remarkable 50.
In Cerrone’s own words, ‘Probably June, July we will make the comeback. Coming back for just two more fights. I crave to reach a personal milestone of 50 fights in the UFC.’ This statement has set sports forums buzzing with discussions on his potential return.
Having been in 55 professional MMA bouts, 48 of which occurred during the UFC’s Zuffa era, Cerrone boasts of a formidable career. He faces an intriguing challenge to make an effective comeback, given his history of PED usage and the overall effects on his physicality and fighting prowess.
Indeed, every sport witnesses moments when athletes grapple with diminishing motivation or drive to compete as fiercely as they once did. A critical look at Cerrone’s recent performances suggests a potential decline in his abilities, with seven losses and no wins in his most recent eight matches.
Dana White, while an avid admirer of Cowboy’s fighting spirit, expressed his reservations about him returning to the ring. He justifies his stance by referencing the numerous, intense battles Cerrone has fought over the years and believes the time has come for him to step away from the brutal wars of the ring.
White’s affection for Cowboy is widely known, and it is from this place of love that he wishes for him to bow out of active fighting. He said, ‘He’s won the hearts of many due to his fierce fighting spirit, and he’s been at the front line of many UFC battles. It’s time for him to retire from these wars. He has nothing left to prove.’
Creating further waves of intrigue, White remarks that if Cerrone’s urge to return is primarily driven by financial needs, the UFC could explore alternatives for him. The proposition suggests that UFC could potentially offer Cowboy a different role within the organization or even in the larger world of mixed martial arts.
Based on these comments, speculations are mounting about whether Cerrone will indeed step into the octagon once again. The former fighter’s determination to tighten his gloves again versus Dana White’s apprehension over his return builds a compelling subplot the sporting world eagerly awaits to unfold.