UFC lightweight Beneil Dariush may be hanging up his gloves sooner than fans know. The 36-year-old has suffered knockout losses in three of his last four matches.
In 2023, Dariush rode an eight-fight win streak in the promotion. However, things quickly changed when he faced Charles Oliveira in a title eliminator at UFC 289. The Iranian-born fighter was unable to secure a title shot, as he was TKO’d in round 1 by “do Bronxs.”
Since then, Beneil Dariush’s only win came at UFC 317 against Renato Moicano.
Meanwhile, his most recent loss came at UFC 322, where he was knocked out cold by Benoit Saint-Denis in just 16 seconds. He had also failed to gain weight for this fight.
Following this loss, the No. 12 ranked 155-pounder has teased a move up to welterweight after a DEXA scan report suggested moving up would be a safer option.
Beneil Dariush’s next UFC fight could be his last
In a recent interview with REAL MMA TODAY, Beneil Dariush revealed that his next fight could be his last. However, he won’t rush and retire. Instead, he’ll wait and see how his body responds to weight cuts and how he performs. That said, another loss could force the 36-year-old to part ways with the octagon. He said:
“The truth is, I’ve been in the UFC for 12 years, and that’s where I’m at right now. I’m taking it one fight at a time. My next fight could be my last. I honestly don’t know. We’ll see what happens after the fight. I don’t want to rush or anything, but I’m praying really hard and doing my best.”
However, when Dariush retires, he plans to be connected to the sport in other ways. He added:
“I’m excited about the future. Whether I’m fighting or coaching. I still plan to be a part of MMA.”
Check out Beneil Dariush’s comments below:
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