Derek Brunson initially considered retirement after his recent loss to Jared Cannonier in February earlier this year. Brunson suggested he may only have one fight left in him after suffering the knockout loss that ended his five-fight win streak.
The 38-year-old is attempting one last run for UFC gold before ultimately hanging it up, and despite his recent outing not going his way, it seems like he’s ready for one last big push before walking about from the sport. Recently, Brunson took to Twitter and discussed what his plans are for 2023 in regard to his mixed martial arts (MMA) career.
Derek Brunson Staying Busy In 2023
Brunson noted that he wants to fight four times this upcoming year, and seems pretty excited to get the ball rolling.
4 fights in 2023 LFG . Where should we start !
4 fights in 2023 LFG . Where should we start ! 😤👱🏾♂️
— Derek Brunson (@DerekBrunson) December 27, 2022
Prior to his defeat to Cannonier, Brunson hadn’t lost since 2018 when he suffered a knockout defeat to now-former 185-pound champion Israel Adesanya. After that, Brunson racked up five-straight wins against names such as Elias Theodorou, Ian Heinisch, Edmen Shahbazyan, Kevin Holland, and Darren Till. A win over Cannonier earlier this year certainly would’ve put him next in line for a title shot, but the nod instead went to Cannonier after the knockout defeat.
Brunson was initially scheduled to face Jack Hermansson UFC on ESPN 42 earlier this month, however, he was forced to withdraw due to injury. Now, after recovering from his injury, Brunson is eying a very busy 2023 to get things back on track. If he’s successful, it will be the first time since 2011 he’s fought four times in a calendar year.
