The UFC's clever plan to return Jorge Masvidal poses a serious threat to Belal Muhammad and others, according to Inside Scoop

Jorge Masvidal was recently seen in action as he took on Nate Diaz in a highly anticipated boxing match. “Gamebred” lost the fight and later claimed he was “robbed” after the judges scored the fight (97-93, 98-92, 95-95). However, his next goal is to return to the Octagon and try mixed martial arts (MMA) again.

The announcement has sent shockwaves through the welterweight division, with fans and fighters wondering what comes next. Will the UFC meet Masvidal's high standards as he appears to be past his prime? What is the return plan for “Gamebred”?

Jorge Masvidal is aiming to return in 2025

Jorge Masvidal announced his retirement from the sport in 2023 after losing his fight against Gilbert Burns in his hometown of Miami. Since announcing his retirement, he took up boxing and appeared in a few fights with a record of 1-1. But it appears that “Gamebred” has found his motivation again and will return to the UFC. During a recent interview with ESPN, Masvidal indicated that he has been in contact with the UFC about his potential return. To his great advantage, he is still under contract with the UFC and does not have to sign a new contract.

While there's no set date for his return, there's just one problem that “Gamebred” might face. Since he has retired from the sport, he has to start from scratch when it comes to testing. The 39-year-old must complete the UFC's drug testing program for at least 180 days before he can compete in his first competition. However, there is an exception to this particular rule and the Promotion has the authority to waive this requirement if it deems appropriate.

Jake Noecker recently took to his X account to reveal details about his comeback. He tweeted: “I spoke with Jorge Masvidal who told me he is still under contract with the UFC and plans to return to the promotion as soon as possible, around early 2025. Masvidal also believes he will be challenging for the welterweight title imminently and is looking forward to it. “We may see some of the new names at the top of the WW division.”

He may be looking forward to competing against some of the top names in the division, but there is one man he particularly likes: Leon Edwards. There are currently no fights scheduled for the former welterweight world champion after losing his belt to Belal Muhammad. It appears that Masvidal is willing to fight him next, but only if the UFC allows him to.

Masvidal may have to wait to face Leon Edwards

Masvidal has fought several big names in the UFC over his time. However, there is one showdown that fans never got to see: Masvidal vs. Leon Edwards. The pair had a heated argument behind the scenes in 2019, but never got the chance to resolve their differences in the Octagon. However, with “Gamebred” making a comeback in the UFC, fans could see the highly anticipated fight. However, it depends on whether the UFC wants to see the fight. Masvidal opened up about his recent conversation with the UFC, sharing the promotion's reaction after he expressed interest in facing “Rocky.”

Unfortunately, the UFC's Hunter Campbell doesn't quite like the fight idea suggested by “Gamebred”. While speaking with ESPN MMA, Masvidal pointed out that he put forward his idea but it was rejected. He said: “Of course I did. Man, the first thing I told his (Hunter): Yeah, they closed it. Said they wouldn't do that. Okay, we'll see who's next. But yeah, the whole ranking and stuff. How are you going to skip the line?”

It appears that Jorge Masvidal will have to earn his chance to face the former champion. Although there is no announcement yet regarding his return, fans have something to look forward to. Realistically, Masvidal probably won't fight for a UFC title again. But there are other big fights like Conor McGregor that “Street Jesus” could be involved in. What are your expectations when Masvidal returns to the UFC in 2025? Let us know what you think in the comments.