Matt Hughes has accomplished everything imaginable throughout his career.
So when he enters his bout against Josh Koscheck at UFC 135, it would seem the former UFC welterweight champion has nothing to lose.
However, that might not be the case.
Koscheck is one of the best fighters in the welterweight division, and one of the best wrestlers. A win over him would not only add another win on Hughes’ resume, but more importantly, he would remain relevant at 170 pounds.
The win certainly wouldn’t guarantee a title shot, but it would put Hughes in contention, as he will have won four of his last five bouts.
The problem is, that the competition has become better since Hughes reigned over the division for the early part of the decade.
Grapplers like Koscheck, Jon Fitch and current champion Georges St-Pierre have dominated their opposition with wrestling skill and ability, while strikers like Carlos Condit and Jake Ellenberger have also run through the competition, boasting respective winning streaks.
Hughes has been primarily a wrestler and has steadily evolved as a fighter, but it isn’t likely he would compete against some of the division’s top competitors.
Also, Hughes will be competing in the last bout of his contract, and at 37 years old, it won’t be surprising to see him call it a career regardless of the outcome on Saturday night.
It would be ideal for Hughes to continue fighting if he were to walk out victorious, but the wear-and tear on his body, plus the encouragement from his family to retire, will likely have Hughes reconsider his options.
So, while he might be fighting for the last time this weekend, whether win, lose or draw, Hughes should walk away with his head held high and his health still intact.
The thought of him challenging for a title shot doesn’t seem realistic at this point in his career, and if anything, would tarnish his legacy.
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