Kevin Lee is eager to return to the UFC, even offering to fight on Dana White’s Contender Series to prove his commitment, but despite being declined, he remains open to competing in any major promotion.
Kevin Lee wants back in the UFC — so much so, he’s even willing to fight on Dana White’s Contender Series to make it happen.
The one-time interim title challenger got a second shot with the promotion in July 2023. Unfortunately, he was stopped by Rinat Fakhretdinov in just 55 seconds at UFC Vegas 76.
“Motown Phenom” has been sharpening his skills at Kill Cliff FC. He even discussed competing on the Contender Series with UFC matchmakers to prove his dedication to advancing his career.
“I mean, I’m interested in doing more grappling matches and things of that nature,” Lee said on Anik & Florian. “But my real love is for MMA.”
“I want to compete again, and just to show you how serious I am, I even told Sean Shelby that I’m willing to go on Dana White’s Contender Series,” he added.
“This next fight will be, not about money or anything else, but to show that I can compete. And my body can hold up amongst the tension I’m putting it under.”
Lee maintains a great relationship with Shelby and many UFC brass. Yet, Shelby denied his request.
“He said no, but I was willing to do it,” Lee said. “It’s $5,000 flat. That’s all you get. For $5,000, we’re losing money, but I’m still willing to do it.”
Whether it’s the UFC, PFL, ONE, or any other known promotion, Lee’s phone will be on waiting for the call.
“As far as the timeline goes, that’s going to be for whatever promotion comes first,” Lee said. “I’m signing that deal.”