Former UFC featherweight title contender Chad Mendes will be coming out of retirement to throw hands in the bareknuckle arena, recently putting pen to paper for a multi-fight deal for David Feldman and Co. over at BKFC.
“I just signed a huge deal with BKFC and I’ll be ready to crush someone on Oct. 22 in Arizona,” Mendes wrote on social media. “I’m super excited to finally compete in boxing! It’s been something I’ve always wanted to try and I’m pumped it all came together. I’ve been feeling good and can’t wait to perform again for you guys!! LETS DO THIS!!!!”
Mendes, 36, walked away from MMA after getting stopped by Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 232 back in late 2018. “Money” was long considered one of the top featherweights in the game, but ultimately came up short against the likes of Jose Aldo and Conor McGregor.
“I want to try something different,” Mendes told Joe Rogan. “I think we’re going to throw some bareknuckle in there, bro – just mix it up and get real crazy. This is something that’s kind of been in the works for probably a year now.”
Mendes certainly looks the part.
Putting the 155lb division on notice @ChadMendes pic.twitter.com/pVfAPWzFji
— Bare Knuckle FC (@bareknucklefc) August 4, 2021
An opponent for his Oct. 22 debut has yet to be revealed.