A tranquil training space filled with martial arts equipment
Montreal, Canada, July 30, 2025
Rory MacDonald, a former UFC title challenger, is back in full-time training but has confirmed he won’t return to competitive MMA. After a tough stint with PFL ending with a 2-4 record, MacDonald enjoys training for personal satisfaction and focuses on mentoring younger fighters. He acknowledges a lack of drive and intensity for championship-level competition, opting for a fulfilling life post-retirement that includes managing rental properties and martial arts practice.
Rory MacDonald, a respected member of the UFC Hall of Fame and a former title challenger, has confirmed that he is back to full-time training but has no intention of returning to competitive mixed martial arts (MMA). The Canadian fighter, who last competed in August 2022, retired following a challenging stint with Professional Fighters League (PFL), where he ended with a disappointing record of 2-4.
During a recent appearance on a popular MMA-focused talk show, MacDonald shared his enjoyment of being back in training, expressing that it feels good to engage in martial arts once again. Although he is training rigorously, often practicing two to three times a day, he has made it clear that he does not have any specific plans to make a comeback to competitive fighting.
MacDonald’s retirement came after a remarkable career that showcased his skills and resilience. He is well-remembered for an iconic rematch against Robbie Lawler at UFC 189, a bout that is frequently hailed as one of the greatest fights in MMA history. After his tenure in the UFC, he claimed the welterweight championship in Bellator and made an unsuccessful attempt to capture the middleweight title from Gegard Mousasi.
Despite having a strong desire to compete, MacDonald revealed that he feels he lacks the necessary “drive” and “intensity” that are essential for competing at a championship level. He conveyed moments of contemplation regarding a potential return to the octagon but quickly reassured himself that he has evolved and does not possess the same mindset required to fight professionally.
At a recent Q&A session at UFC 315 in Montreal, MacDonald expressed his fulfillment in contributing to the sport through mentoring younger fighters rather than actively competing. He is currently focusing on life post-retirement, which includes managing rental properties and training in martial arts purely for personal enjoyment, not competition.
While MacDonald is only 35 years old, which is considered young by MMA standards, he believes that he lacks the mental toughness needed to handle the intense demands of professional fighting. Despite his physical capabilities, MacDonald’s acknowledgment of his mental state signifies a thoughtful and mature approach to his post-fighting career.
In summary, Rory MacDonald is enjoying his return to training but remains committed to his decision not to compete in MMA again. He prioritizes his involvement in the sport in a supportive capacity, where he can aid emerging athletes, while also focusing on personal interests outside of the competitive arena.
Rory MacDonald retired after a difficult run with PFL, concluding with a 2-4 record, and expressed a lack of the intensity needed for championship-level competition.
MacDonald is focused on managing rental properties and training in martial arts for enjoyment, rather than for competition.
While he’s thought about returning, MacDonald has reaffirmed that he does not possess the same mindset or drive as before, leading him to remain retired.
Rory MacDonald is currently 35 years old.
He is particularly known for his iconic rematch against Robbie Lawler at UFC 189, often regarded as one of the greatest fights in MMA history.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 35 |
| Retirement Date | August 2022 |
| PFL Record | 2-4 |
| Last Major Fight | Versus Robbie Lawler at UFC 189 |
| Current Activities | Training for enjoyment, managing rental properties |
| Mental State on Competing | Lacks drive for championship-level competition |
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