Former UFC featherweight and Bare Knuckle FC star Artem Lobov has admitted there are two scenarios that could draw him out of retirement.

Over the course of his 11-year career in professional combat sports, Lobov became one of the most popular and recognizable names. Whether through his fighting style, appearance on The Ultimate Fighter, or connection to Conor McGregor and the SBC Ireland team, every fan knows "The Russian Hammer."

After leaving mixed martial arts with a 13-15-1 record, a résumé that includes two UFC victories, following his defeat to Michael Johnson in 2018, Lobov turned his attention to bare-knuckle boxing.

After signing a lucrative deal with BKFC, the Russian star won his opening two bouts with the promotion, first against Jason Knight and then against legendary former boxing champion Pauli Malignaggi just two months later.

But after back-to-back losses to Knight and Denys Berinchyk, the latter of which took place under the promotional banner of Mahatch FC, Lobov took a realistic look at his career, aspirations, and responsibilities. He decided to call time on his career last July, a week after his final appearance in combat sports.

Lobov Admits Path Back To Action Exists

After the announcement, many in the community reflected on Lobov's memorable career as they bid farewell to a combat sports mainstay. While the 35-year-old doesn't see himself breaking his promise to himself and darting in and out of retirement, he has provided some hope for fans who wish to see him back in action.