Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone, a 41-year-old UFC Hall of Famer, plans to come out of retirement to pursue breaking records and achieving 50 fights under the UFC umbrella, despite challenges like re-entering the anti-doping program after using performance-enhancing drugs during his retirement.
Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone seemed pretty serious when he announced his retirement back in 2022. But here we are, less than three years later, and he’s already planning a comeback. Go figure.
At 41, this UFC Hall of Famer is itching to get back in the octagon. He’s got his sights set on breaking records and hitting that magical number: 50 fights under the UFC family umbrella. Just a day after Cerrone’s announcement, former UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub had a chat with him about stepping back into the ring.
“I literally just talked to ‘Cowboy’ before I came in here,” Schaub said, sharing their off-road racing bond. When he mentioned Cerrone’s return, they both just laughed.
“‘Cowboy’s a different animal,” Schaub mused. “I’d assume the UFC gives him proper matchups. Like, don’t toss him in there with these killers. He’s a legend; he’s earned that.”
Schaub gets it—he hasn’t fought in a decade but understands the itch to compete never really goes away. For many fighters, returning is often about finances. But not for “Cowboy.”
Schaub initially questioned why Cerrone would return when money wasn’t an issue. But then he heard Cerrone’s excitement and understood—it’s all about passion.
“I love ‘Cowboy’—this is how crazy his ass is,” Schaub exclaimed. “He doesn’t need fame or money. It’s pure love for fighting.”
Schaub even tried to talk Cerrone out of it but ended up rooting for him instead. “‘Cowboy’ Cerrone’s back!” he cheered.
Cerrone’s always been an adrenaline junkie, dabbling in extreme sports even near big fights. Schaub thought racing cars would satisfy that craving.
Turns out, nothing beats the thrill of fighting for Cerrone. That’s why he’s coming back.
Schaub explained, “When you’re racing… it’s intense. We’re talking about 800 horsepower trucks.” Yet for Cerrone, it’s still not enough.
Despite supporting Cerrone’s return, Schaub knows there are challenges ahead. One major hurdle? Performance-enhancing drugs.
Since retiring, Cerrone admitted using them—no rules against it outside the UFC. But that changes once he officially returns.
Cerrone must re-enter the UFC’s anti-doping program and pass six months of clean tests before fighting again.
“What he’s doing is against all odds,” Schaub said. Going from TRT and peptides to clean isn’t easy; it changes everything.
Remember when USADA came into play and fighters looked different? It’ll be like that but on steroids—pun intended.
Schaub hopes the UFC treats Cerrone right—not just financially but with fair matchups too. No need to pit him against young lions hungry for a name.
“I hope they match him up right,” Schaub said, emphasizing respect for Cerrone’s legacy.
For “Cowboy,” it’s not just about fighting; it’s about bringing attention to his other passions like off-road racing and Dana’s Nitro Circus.
In the end, Schaub wishes only the best for Cerrone: “He has his wits about him… I just hope they match him up accordingly.”