Former champion Jan Blachowicz sets his sights on the road to retirement, aims at 3 fights before hanging up the gloves!
The Polish powerhouse has experienced all the highs and lows of MMA. From being nearly cut by the UFC to becoming world champion. From fighting in half-empty arenas to defending his title on the biggest stage. Now, after a lengthy absence, the former light heavyweight king is plotting one final championship run before riding off into the sunset.
Blachowicz has been missing from the octagon since 2023 due to one of the most challenging periods of his career. The former champion underwent surgery on both shoulders, a recovery process he described as the “worst” of his life. Now, he is set to take on Carlos Ulberg at UFC London this month.
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With his return to fighting now set for UFC London against the dangerous Carlos Ulberg, Blachowicz isn’t just looking to shake off ring rust. The Polish veteran has mapped out an ambitious three-fight plan that would make for a storybook ending to his legendary career. Speaking to Ariel Helwani, he mapped out his road to retirement.
“I beat Ulberg then I take title shot against [Magomed] Ankalaev. I beat Ankalaev and then rematch against Alex Pereira. I defend the belt against Pereira. Perfect scenario for me… Then I can go to the mountains again.”
The path Blachowicz has laid out would make for one of the greatest late-career runs in UFC history. At 42 years old, many fighters would be content with taking safe matchups to pad their record. Not the man who brought “Polish Power” to the UFC. His desire to face not one but two of the most dangerous fighters in the division shows the heart of a true warrior.
The Pereira rematch holds special significance for Blachowicz, as their first encounter at UFC 291 ended in a controversial split decision victory for the Brazilian. Many observers felt Blachowicz did enough to win that fight, and it clearly still bothers him nearly two years later.
Before any talk of championships can materialize, Blachowicz must first overcome Carlos Ulberg on March 23rd in London. The City Kickboxing product brings a seven-fight win streak. Blachowicz enters as the betting underdog, a position he has thrived in before. Now, with potential retirement looming if things don’t go his way, fans should expect a rejuvenated and desperate Blachowicz to bring his legendary power to London!
(Image Credit: Jeff Swinger – Imagn Images)
