Glover Teixeira Says He’s Not Planning a UFC Comeback
Glover Teixeira retired from mixed martial arts after losing a unanimous decision to Jamahal Hill in the UFC 283 light heavyweight title fight on January 21, 2023. In October 2024, he said he wanted to compete again but did not say he was committed to another MMA or UFC fight. He has since returned to competition in a different sport: boxing.
Why Teixeira Talked About Competing Again
After retiring, Teixeira continued coaching and training alongside his longtime student Alex Pereira. In a 2024 interview, Teixeira said, “I’m not saying I want to fight, but I want to compete,” and discussed grappling as one possible route. Pereira had encouraged him to consider fighting again, but the comments described interest in competition, not a confirmed UFC comeback.
His MMA Career Ended at UFC 283
Teixeira’s final MMA bout was against Hill in Rio de Janeiro. Hill won the vacant light heavyweight championship by unanimous decision, and Teixeira announced his retirement after the fight. That remains the end of Teixeira’s UFC and MMA career.
Teixeira Returned to the Ring in 2026
On August 29, 2026, Teixeira faced fellow former UFC champion Mauricio “Shogun” Rua in an eight-round boxing match at Spaten Fight Night 3 in São Paulo. Teixeira won by unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the bout 79–72. The appearance fulfilled his stated desire to compete, while taking place in boxing rather than marking an MMA or UFC return.
Sources
- UFC — UFC 283 official scorecards and retirement announcement
- MMA Fighting — Teixeira discusses competing again
- MMA Fighting — Teixeira defeats Shogun Rua in boxing match
Tags: Boxing, Combat Sports
