Jorge Masvidal is gearing up for a return to competition and has his sights set on two marquee opponents: Conor McGregor or Leon Edwards. The former UFC title challenger retired from MMA in April 2023 but appears eager to make a high-profile comeback.
Masvidal, currently on a four-fight losing streak, saw his skid begin in July 2020 when he lost a decision to Kamaru Usman for the welterweight title at UFC 251. Their rematch at UFC 261 in April 2021 ended with Usman delivering a devastating knockout to retain his belt.
The Miami native then dropped a decision to Colby Covington at UFC 272 in March 2022 and again to Gilbert Burns at UFC 287 in April 2023. Following his MMA retirement, Masvidal ventured into boxing, where he lost a decision to Nate Diaz in July 2023.
Speaking with MMA Junkie in Spanish, Masvidal explained why both McGregor and Edwards make sense as opponents, citing their winnability and storyline appeal.
“I’d like for it to be Conor [McGregor] because I heard he also wants to fight on that same date,” Masvidal said. “He’s never mentioned my name because he knows I’ll rip his head off. However, if him and the UFC make that mistake, I’ll take his head off in Miami in April. But I don’t know if he wants it. He knows I’ll break him and make him look bad. I won’t take him down. I’ll strike with him and take him out of this orbit. He’s never mentioned my name, and it’s for a reason.”
Masvidal also addressed the possibility of facing Leon Edwards, the current UFC Welterweight Champion, with whom he shares a heated history stemming from their infamous backstage altercation in 2019.
“They’re saying [McGregor] might want to do it, but I’m chilling. If he wants to do it, great, I’ll kill him. If not, Leon Edwards. He and I have history, and it’s time to settle it. He’s not booked, and neither am I. Let’s go, sign the contract, and I’ll break your face.”
Masvidal hinted at a possible April 2024 return, which could align with UFC’s plans for a major event in Miami.
