Robbie Lawler, following his retirement from MMA, has not entirely ruled out a comeback although he thinks it’s unlikely, due to the toll his intense training regimen takes on his body, but regardless plans to remain in the sport by passing on his knowledge to the next generation.
Robbie Lawler may not be completely dismissing a return to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), but he makes it clear that he doesn’t think it’s very likely. At UFC 290, Lawler characterized one of the most amazing retirements in MMA history. He halted Niko Price in a mere 38 seconds during the final bout of his significant career. Post-win, Lawler stated how incredibly good he felt throughout the fight week, which led fans to question whether the “Ruthless” was genuinely contemplating retirement. However, reiterating in a conversation on The MMA Hour, Lawler made clear that while he has the option of continuing to fight, he chooses not to.
Lawler spoke about how he undoubtedly possesses more energy to keep fighting, but the difficulty for him lies in regulating his training rhythm. He shared, “I just can’t do as much as I used to. I can’t train the way I want to train. I’m the guy who likes to do extra work, and now it’s like, hey, relax, you know how to fight, so let’s just get you to the battle.” Lawler, however, mentioned his challenge in adjusting to dialing down his usual intense workout routine and maintain a balance without overexerting himself.
Being 41 years old, Lawler is among the most cherished and successful fighters in UFC history. He was a former welterweight champion, received the Fight of the Year award three times, and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame for his fight with Rory MacDonald at UFC 189. Fighting forms the essence of his adult life, a paradigm many veteran fighters find daunting to move away from. However, Lawler clarified that he doesn’t believe the appeals of the cage will seduce him back, as he shared, “I’m a fighter, I will never say never, but I’m in a good state. You never know, but I feel good.”
Although he may be ceasing competition, Lawler is not done with MMA. With 22 years of experience within the realm, Lawler conveyed his intention of utilizing the next few years to pass on his knowledge to the budding fighters. He shared his future involvement will involve coaching at Kill Cliff FC, saying, “I didn’t get where I am today by not getting help from good coaches and good training partners. Now it’s about handing over a little bit of technique and giving a little push here and there to make their lives easier, and to use my knowledge to benefit others.” Lawler concluded his 22-year-long career with a comprehensive record of 30-16, with 1 No-Contest.