Lyoto Machida will serve as a team manager for the Global Fight League’s debut year, prioritizing leadership over fighting, though he remains open to returning to competition if the right challenge arises.
Lyoto Machida is stepping into a new role as team manager for the Global Fight League’s debut year. Yet, he’s not completely closing the door on fighting again. Initially, the GFL wanted him to compete, but ultimately, they named him the São Paulo team leader alongside coach Andre Pederneiras.
“They invited me as an athlete, but I said, ‘No, I’m away for some time and I’d rather come in as a manager,’” Machida told MMA Fighting. He’s curious about the league’s evolution and believes it will benefit the sport by offering more opportunities. Competition is healthy, right? It opens doors for fighters like those under ‘Dede’ [Pederneiras], who aren’t in the UFC but have the skills to be there.
Machida turned down the offer to fight because it’s not his current focus. Leadership is where he wants to test himself now. “I’m not saying I won’t fight again,” he clarified. “But it’s not a priority for me.” He wants to see how this new promotion unfolds from a managerial perspective.
The 46-year-old veteran has had an illustrious career, defeating big names like Rashad Evans and Tito Ortiz during his UFC tenure before moving to Bellator. There, he secured wins against Rafael Carvalho and Chael Sonnen but left after a string of losses.
“The door as an athlete [is open, but] it’s not a priority for me,” Machida reiterated. He maintains his training regime—jiu-jitsu, striking, you name it—but not at full throttle unless an opportunity arises. It’s like he’s cruising at 60 percent, ready to ramp up if needed.
The GFL roster is packed with seasoned fighters, including five of Machida’s former opponents: Mousasi, Yoel Romero, Mauricio Rua, Chris Weidman, and Luke Rockhold. Talk about familiar faces!
“What would make me fight again?” Machida mused. A challenge that resonates with him could do it—something meaningful or someone from his generation. But no young guns; he’s not looking to fight a 25- or 30-year-old. Timing is everything. For now, though? Managing takes precedence.