Conor McGregor on the way to the High Court in Dublin, Ireland. Photo: Reuters
While Brazil celebrates its first Oscar for Best International Feature Film with Ainda Estou Aqui, a film that tells the story of Eunice Paiva's fight against her husband's disappearance during the military dictatorship, MMA is experiencing its own drama of absences and long-awaited returns. Just like the film's protagonist, fighters such as Conor McGregor, Nick Diaz, Raphael Fiziev and others face prolonged silences, traumas and personal challenges that keep them away from the octagon.
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The difference is that, in the UFC, 'disappearance' has an expiration date – and return is always a matter of time.
With this, the SUPER FIGHTS has put together a list of renowned fighters who have been out of the organization for the longest time.
Conor McGregor: The most anticipated return in sport
Almost four years ago, McGregor broke his leg against Dustin poirier. Since then, the Irishman has been on a rollercoaster ride: sexual assault allegations, side projects — which even include a film (Contract Killer), and postponements. His return, scheduled for 2026, has become a myth.
Fans already joke that he is the 'ET of the UFC' – everyone believes he exists, but no one sees him. At 36 years old, the question is whether the 'Notorious' still has the flame that made him king.
Nick Diaz: The Rebel Without a Cause (But With Delays)
N. Diaz (photo) faced R. Lawler in September 2021. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Nick Diaz has not fought since 2021. His return against Vincent Luque, marked and re-marked, became a symbol of a generation that resists retirement.
At 41, the 'bad boy from Stockton' still turns heads, but his body seems to be shouting what his mouth isn't saying: maybe it's time to hang up the gloves. But, as in Walter Salles' film, Diaz insists: 'I'm still here.'
Rafael Fiziev: The phoenix of the destroyed knee
Raphael Fiziev gets injured in UFC fight. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Cruciate ligament rupture, surgery, rehabilitation… Raphael Fiziev spent more time in physical therapy than training in the last two years. His fight against Justin gaethje it's a test of courage.
If you win in the UFC 313 next Saturday (8), will be an Oscar-worthy script.
Jan Blachowicz: Former champion who refuses to surrender to time
Jan Blachowicz (left) and Alex Poatán (right) facing before the UFC 291. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
At 42, Jan Blachowicz is a survivor. The Pole, who once reigned at light heavyweight, has not stepped into the Octagon since July 2023, when he lost a close fight to Alex Poatán.
Now he returns on March 22 against Carlos Ulberg, in a fight that could define whether he still belongs to the division's elite.
Marvin Vettori: From the Casino to the Octagon
Marvin vettori is currently ranked eighth in the middleweight division. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @marvinvettori
Marvin vettori is not only known for his fights. In 2023, the Italian made headlines after a fight in a Florida casino, but he remained focused: he returns on March 15 against Roman Dolidze.
Defeated by Jared Cannonier at UFC Vegas 76, in July 2023, in his last appearance inside the cage, he seeks to find his way back to the top.
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