Mixed martial arts legend Michael Bisping has definitively shut down speculation about a potential return to the octagon, declaring himself "99% retired" despite the current wave of high-profile MMA comebacks.
In an exclusive interview with TMZ Sports, the 47-year-old former UFC middleweight champion made it clear that while he believes he could still "whoop a ton of ass," his fighting days are essentially over.
"I mean, there's always a bag big enough [to get me to unretire], but probably 99% I'm done," Bisping stated bluntly when asked about following in the footsteps of fighters like Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano who have recently announced returns to competition.
The British fighter, who compiled a 30-9 professional record during his storied career, pointed to accumulated pain and injuries as primary factors keeping him on the sidelines. Bisping, who famously captured the middleweight title in 2016, has transitioned successfully to commentary and acting roles since his retirement.
Bisping does have experience with high-profile comebacks from the opponent's perspective—he faced Georges St-Pierre in 2017 after the Canadian legend's four-year hiatus from competition, losing via rear-naked choke in their championship bout.
Despite leaving the door slightly ajar for an astronomical financial offer, Bisping emphasized his satisfaction with how his career concluded and his current professional pursuits outside the cage.
When asked about the upcoming UFC Freedom 250 event, Bisping defended the card against criticism about star power, suggesting the organization has "some tricks up its sleeve" for the White House extravaganza that make it a must-watch for fight fans.