Former UFC Champ Being Coaxed Out Of Retirement By Alex Pereira

Could the door back to the UFC be opening for Glover Teixeira?

The former light heavyweight champion is pondering that idea thanks in large part to the man currently holding the title, Alex Pereira.

Back in 2023, Teixeira told MMA Fighting that he was “very comfortable” sticking to coaching and remaining retired from mixed martial arts.

Related: Alex Pereira Next Fight: 3 Opponent Options For ‘Poatan’ Including Jon Jones

That has changed.

“There’s nothing (booked) but I’ll definitely go back to competition,” Teixeira told the site. “I keep going after challenges.

“It’s hard to stay (training) with no reason why so I’ll definitely do something. I want to compete.”

Following back-to-back losses inside the Octagon to Jiri Prochazka and Jamahal Hill, Teixeira stepped away from the sport. He did return later that year to defeat Anthony Smith in a grappling match.

Since, Teixeira has worked closely with Pereira as he has become the UFC light heavyweight champion. Recently, Pereira defended his title at UFC 307 with a victory over Khalil Rountree Jr.

“I’ll do some jiu-jitsu,” Teixeira said. “Maybe boxing. Or even go back for some fights in the UFC.

“That’s got to be it because it’s hard. I’m feeling great, fighting hard with the guys in the gym.”

Pereira, who has been rolling with Teixeira, told him “you have to come back” during a recent session.

“I’m training well, feeling well,” he added. “I love this.”

During an extended career, Teixeira made 42 appearances inside the cage. He put together a 33-9 record that included wins over Rashad Evans, Ryan Bader and Quinton “Rampage” Jackson.

In 2014, he challenged then-champion Jon Jones for the belt, losing via decision. Seven years later, he became the oldest first-time titleholder in promotion history.

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