Former undisputed middleweight champion and renowned grappler Luke Rockhold is not ready to hang up his gloves just yet.
Former undisputed middleweight champion and renowned grappler Luke Rockhold is not ready to hang up his gloves just yet. Despite announcing his retirement from professional MMA in August of last year after UFC 278. Rockhold is eager to return to competition this time in the grappling realm. The California native has thrown down the gauntlet offering to face former dual-weight UFC champion Georges St-Pierre in a high-profile grappling showdown later this year.
Rockhold’s grappling skills have been highly regarded throughout his MMA career. As a former middleweight champion in the UFC, he has showcased his ground game prowess on numerous occasions. Rockhold remains hungry for competition and has recently ventured into other combat sports including a headline fight in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) against fellow UFC veteran Mike Perry which ended in a second-round TKO loss due to a mouth injury.
Meanwhile, Georges St-Pierre, a legendary figure in MMA history has been teasing a return to the grappling world. After being announced as a participant in an upcoming UFC Fight Pass Invitational in December. Fans and media alike have been speculating about his potential opponents. While no official opponent has been confirmed for St-Pierre’s return. There have been rumors of a grappling showdown with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expert and former Octagon title challenger Demian Maia.
However, Luke Rockhold has now thrown himself into the mix. He expressed his willingness to face the Quebec favorite on the mats. Rockhold is not holding back confidence in his abilities and even suggests that St-Pierre should think twice before accepting the challenge.
“Georges St-Pierre wants to go, I would go with Georges in a heartbeat,” Rockhold told MMA Junkie. “But, if he’s smart, probably not. I’m too big and too good for him.”
Despite his eagerness to compete, Rockhold is clear about his terms for the potential grappling bout. He’s not willing to make any significant weight cuts, especially not below 185 pounds. However, he is open to meeting St-Pierre at 190 pounds for the grappling showdown. Highlighting his commitment to making the bout happen.
“I’m not going down below 185 pounds,” Rockhold emphasized. “Grappling, I wouldn’t go below 190 (pounds). If Georges wants to go, I will meet him. 190 pounds any day of the week. I’d love to do it.”
A grappling match between Rockhold and St-Pierre would undoubtedly be a marquee attraction. Drawing attention from fans and the combat sports community. Both fighters are known for their grappling skills and have achieved significant success in their respective careers.
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