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Former UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler is keeping the door slightly ajar on a potential return to combat sports. Despite his fairytale retirement after a spectacular first-round knockout victory over Niko Price in July 2023, the MMA legend isn’t entirely ruling out another fight.
Earlier this year, BKFC’s Mike Perry openly challenged Lawler to a bare-knuckle fight. While many dismissed the possibility, BKFC founder David Feldman has been actively working to make the bout happen. However, there’s one major roadblock: Robbie Lawler is still under contract with the UFC, and their approval is required for any such matchup.
Feldman remains optimistic, stating in January,
“We’re working on it, we’re working on it… We’re working out a deal with the UFC. That’s a sick fight, right? I’ll know [if it’s going to happen] in two weeks.”
But despite the promoter’s enthusiasm, Lawler himself sounds more hesitant about stepping back into the ring.
At the UFC 313 post-fight press conference, Lawler was asked directly about a possible return. Though he didn’t mention Perry or BKFC specifically, his response left the door open for speculation.
“It’s hung up now, but never say never,” Lawler said. “I’m not closing any doors, but if they look like they’re closed… There’s always opportunities out there. There’s just all feel, I guess, what I feel like doing.”
Regardless of whether he fights again, Lawler has a major milestone ahead. Over the weekend, it was announced that ‘Ruthless’ will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s Modern Wing this summer, an honor recognizing his legendary career. This comes after his 2023 induction into the Fight Wing for his unforgettable war with Rory MacDonald at UFC 189 in 2015.
For now, the fight world waits to see if Lawler will lace up the gloves once more—or if his Hall of Fame career remains closed on a perfect final chapter.