Earlier this week, UFC CEO Dana White revealed the main events for UFC 297 in January, UFC 298 in February, and UFC 299 in March. The news has generated a tonne of excitement among MMA fans, but many eyes are already turning to UFC 300 which, as of right now, appears to be on track for April.
Speculation continues to run rampant that Conor McGregor will be part of the landmark show, but now UFC is under the same umbrella as WWE as part of TKO Holdings, what about Brock Lesnar and Ronda Rousey?
"I get why everybody asks," White tells Sports Illustrated. "I love that everybody loves them like that, and with so much passion. I do, too. But they’re definitely not coming back for UFC 300."
This isn't a surprise. Lesnar, who fought eight times for the UFC, winning the heavyweight title in only his third bout, is now 46 and quite happy cashing a sizeable paycheque from WWE for sporadic appearances on TV and at PLEs. He was part of UFC 100 and UFC 200, though, so perhaps he'll show up as a guest!
"I always had an incredible working relationship with Brock Lesnar," adds White. "It’s funny to say this because he’s such a grouchy dude, but I consider Brock Lesnar a friend."
As for Rousey, she's not competed in the Octagon since the end of 2016 and also fought eight times for UFC, picking up six wins in the process. However, she's recently left WWE and is now booking appearances on the independent wrestling scene.
"I absolutely love Ronda Rousey," the UFC boss says. "She's one of the greatest athletes I’ve ever worked with. She’s a pioneer, an inspirational figure for women, and an all-around badass for UFC.”
“I’m focused on Madison Square Garden. But no, they’re not coming back."
This isn't a huge surprise but there will be many UFC fans who are disappointed. Ultimately, while Lesnar and Rousey are both legends in the MMA realm, their time has passed, and to try and book them for a fight now...well, neither would be at their best and it likely wouldn't reflect well on what's set to be an important show.
We're hoping one or both do have a presence at the event (even if it's just in the crowd) and will keep you updated as we learn more about White's big UFC 300 plans.