UFC

Donald Cerrone Announces UFC Return After Steroid Revelation

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Donald Cerrone stands in his corner prior to his lightweight bout against Al Iaquinta

The legend himself, Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone, is back! After a brief retirement following a tough loss at UFC 276 in July 2022, Cerrone has announced his intention to return to the Octagon for two final fights. This news comes with a surprising twist, however, as Cerrone openly admits to using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) during his retirement.

Cerrone made the announcement via an Instagram video, his signature grit and humor shining through. “I want to go back and get two more fights,” he declared, acknowledging his competitive spirit still burns bright. However, a new wrinkle emerged: “I retired, I told you I was gonna get my hair done and getting on steroids,” Cerrone stated with a slight grin.

This revelation dropped a bombshell on the MMA world. Cerrone, a fighter known for his toughness and relentless work ethic, admitted to using PEDs during his time away from the sport. This honesty, while surprising, speaks volumes about Cerrone’s character and his desire to return clean.

“The number 50 has been sitting on my mind for a while,” Cerrone continued, referring to his combined fight record inside the UFC and WEC cages. Reaching that milestone seems to be a major motivator for his return. Cerrone currently sits at 48 professional fights, with 33 of those coming within the UFC banner.

Cerrone emphasized his commitment to returning to the testing pool. “I now have to come off and piss clean, fight in a few months,” he declared. This transparency is a refreshing change and showcases a dedication to competing fairly in his final two bouts.

The question remains: who will Cerrone face in his swan song? With a record like his, there’s no shortage of potential opponents. Names like Tony Ferguson, Rafael dos Anjos, or even a rematch with Jim Miller have been floated around by fans and pundits.

One thing’s for sure – Cerrone’s return adds another layer of intrigue to the already stacked UFC schedule. His fighting style, a blend of powerful striking and relentless pressure, has always guaranteed a good show. At 41 years old, the question of Cerrone’s fighting ability remains, but his heart and determination are undeniable.

Cerrone’s comeback raises several interesting points. Firstly, it highlights the ever-present issue of PED use in MMA, and the complexities surrounding fighter health and performance enhancement. Secondly, it brings back the discussion of fighter longevity and the potential toll a long career takes on the body.

However, Cerrone’s return can also be seen as a celebration of a true MMA legend. “Cowboy” has entertained fans for over a decade, leaving a legacy of thrilling fights and never-say-die attitude. Whether he wins or loses his final two bouts, Cerrone deserves a hero’s welcome back into the Octagon.

Ultimately, Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone’s UFC return is a story in two parts. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of a fighter and a reminder of the challenges athletes face in today’s combat sports landscape. Regardless, one thing is certain – “Cowboy” is back, and fight fans everywhere are eager to see him ride into the sunset on his own terms.