Cody Garbrandt Sets Eyes On UFC Return
Former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt has his eyes set on his UFC return. Recovering from injury, it’s been a long 7 months for “No Love.” However, at Dominance MMA media day, Cody made it clear that he wants to return in the first quarter of 2020.
Garbrandt tore a tendon in his wrist during his fight with Pedro Munhoz. Sitting on the sidelines, Cody waited for his opportunity to return to the octagon. Then, Cody tore the tendon again in a training session, forcing him out until 2020. The series of injuries led to a long period of time where Garbrandt could map out his return. He spoke to the media and revealed his plans.
Dominance MMA Media Day
Speaking to reporters, Garbrandt unveiled his plans to return to action. He even stated that he’s already spoken to UFC President Dana White about exactly where and when he’d return.
“I would like for the UFC to come back to Ohio in March,” said Cody. “There’s the Arnold Classic there. It’s a great time to go and do that, so we’ll see. We got Stipe (Miocic) as the champion again, so Stipe fighting in Ohio the home state, I would love to, and that’s where I’m at with that. I’m excited to come back.”
An Ohio homecoming would be massive for both the state and the UFC in regards to Cody’s return. And, with the fluidity of the bantamweight rankings, Cody made it clear that he is still hungry. But these days with Cody, with age, comes maturity. He knows now that rushing back isn’t what is best for his body. Although his desire to fight now is as strong as it was initially.
“I’ve been a little injury prone these last few fights and camps, but I’m taking my time, and I just turned 28. I have a lot of life and fight in me,” Cody answered. “My hunger is still – every day I wake up excited to get back.”
Cody continued, “My division is one of the most entertaining, best divisions in the UFC. You got Frankie coming down, you got Edgar, you got Marlon (Moraes), you got Henry (Cejudo), Dominick’s (Cruz) making his comeback, you got T.J. ‘Pillashaw,’ he’ll probably be back. You know he’s taken his steroids, so it’s a good division. Those are all good guys, so it keeps me excited.”
Returning in 2020
Cody admitted to reporters that in the past he’s rushed the recovery process. This time around, he’s on a different path. So, now that Cody is allowing himself to heal properly, one could only think about who he would face when he finally makes his return.
Who would fans like Cody to face in his return early 2020? Whoever it is, expect to see the healthiest version of Garbrandt that we’ve seen in a while.
