Masvidal Is In Talks For A UFC Return

Former BMF Champion Jorge Masvidal (35-17-0) is in negotiations with the UFC for a return, as he named Leon Edwards as his ideal target.

Masvidal recently turned down a spot on the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano May 16 Netflix card, opting instead to wait for an opportunity under the UFC. UFC CEO Dana White told reporters that the promotion spoke with Masvidal’s team during the UFC 327 post-fight presser last weekend. Jorge has not had a UFC fight since losing to Gilbert Burns at UFC 287 in 2023, his fourth loss in a row.

Gambread’s last competitive bout was a majority decision loss to Nate Diaz in their 2024 boxing match. Masvidal has made no secret of his desire to finally settle his long-standing grudge with the former welterweight champion Edwards, who had a backstage alteraction with Masvidal at a 2019 UFC London event.

Masvidal has stated he requires four to five months of a dedicated training camp to reach peak condition. This timeline suggests a potential return in September or October 2026 unless an Edwards fight was presented for which Masvidal is ready.

“We’re talking. We’re definitely talking. We’ve been talking for a minute, you know. We just haven’t landed on that thing. You guys know … how the UFC is. I love them to death But man, they make you work for every single thing. and it’s always like it’s not quite what you want it to be a lot of times, so we’re working. We’re going to get something done, though.

“I think the more time they give me to prepare the better, obviously. So a good four months, five months from here would be perfect. I will take a fight at welterweight if it’s the right names that I’m asking. There’s a name or two I’m asking … Look, if they give me the Leon [Edwards] fight, I’ll get to 170 by tomorrow. No kidding. Quick. I would like that fight, you know,” Masvidal said