Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Vitor Belfort stated before that he planned on retiring after fighting Nate Marquardt at UFC 212.
Plans may have changed for the fighter, who may seek other fights outside of the UFC auspices.
"(I will) leave the UFC, but I’ll continue competing,” Belfort told Veja Rio. "Fight is my passion. Too bad that MMA hasn’t become a serious sport yet. Maybe I’ll help change this scenario.”
The Brazilian competitor had once teased the idea of starting a legends league, but that may not be where he would be heading once his time in the UFC is complete.
As the Brazilian trains for his final UFC encounter, a change is needed and that change would be to head to an organization that treats MMA like a sport, not like a show.
"Today, a fighter is more artist than athlete,” Belfort said. "The UFC is a show, not a sport. It’s sad to see new fighters wanting to drive the card of the moment or be in the spotlight like Conor McGregor. Their reference is to have, not to be."
UFC 212 takes place on Saturday, June 3 from the HSBC Arena in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil with Jose Aldo and Max Holloway headlining. Fightful is providing live coverage of the event, with a post-show podcast to follow.
