After happily retiring in December 2016, Urijah Faber is now seemingly set for a potential return to the octagon.
In his farewell fight, Faber defeated Brad Pickett, ending his career at home in Sacramento, California. Over two years later though, the UFC is now set to return to that very arena and in response, Faber is apparently pondering the same thing too. As was mentioned in last week's Fight Size MMA Update, 'The California Kid' suggested a comeback at that event on Instagram, pondering a "good ole fist fight" while celebrating his 40th birthday.
When asked about the legitimacy of his comment, Faber told The MMA Hour that "it's very serious." Further detailing his thought process, Faber explained the motivation as well. “No one really gets to see the behind the scenes of what goes on when events are being put together or anything like that. Throughout my time being retired, I’ve been offered fights on a couple different occasions and learned my lesson. If I’m starting to get tempted or thinking about it, just to get myself in good shape and I’ve always stayed in the gym obviously, being at the (Alpha Male) team and helping mentor the guys.
"Training all year round etc so I’ve probably of the last six months, giving a little more consideration after being offered a couple of short notice fights that I’m like ‘man that’s kinda tempting.’ The reason I retired in the first place is because I wanted to, felt like it. I was feeling like ‘okay if I’m thinking about it,’ maybe it’s the time and it’s the same reason why I’m thinking about coming back out and taking a fight. Sounds like fun, a little FOMO."
Faber's thoughts aren't without reference either, with the former WEC Champion citing his current performance in training, "I know, as a gauge, I do really well against the guys still and if I’m gonna do it, you don’t wanna wait longer . . . I just turned 40 which is crazy. I kinda teased it once I did turn 40 I’d like to challenge myself . . . do some fights, I got the new baby so some names have been thrown out there for opponents and it’s real possible.”
As for when fans will know for sure about Faber's fighting future, 'The California Kid' told Luke Thomas that it'll become clear “pretty soon.” UFC Fight Night Sacramento takes place on July 13th and is set to air on ESPN+.
