Without winning for almost 10 years, BJ Penn believes he will no longer fight: 'There's no point in getting hurt'

B. Penn in UFC fight. Photo: Reproduction/ Facebook UFC

Who analyzes the recent history of B.J. Penn in MMA, you wouldn't imagine that the 41-year-old Hawaiian was once one of the biggest names in the UFC. Former champion in two different divisions in the organization, the athlete reflected deeply on his future in the sport and, although he is not looking forward to retirement, suggested that he may no longer be seen in a professional fight.

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“I think when you have something to prove, that's when you can do your best. It's like, 'Hey, man, you've already proven how good you are. It's not about proving myself to myself. I really enjoy doing this, but you can't keep hurting yourself. That doesn’t make sense to anyone,” said the Hawaiian in a conversation with coach Jason Parillo, on Instagram.

Penn debuted in MMA in May 2001, when he gave his calling card to Joey Gilbert, knocking out his rival in the first round in a fight valid for UFC 31.

It can be said that BJ is a 'child' of Ultimate. With 32 fights as a professional in mixed martial arts, on only five occasions has the athlete performed wearing the gloves of a company other than the one chaired by Dana White.

Without winning for almost 10 years, the former lightweight (up to 70,3kg) and welterweight (up to 77kg) champion spoke about the exhaustion of preparing for a fight. According to the athlete, preparing for a commitment inside the octagon ends up being rigorous for an athlete.

“It requires a lot of work. It demands a lot. At that age, it's complicated. You never know what’s going to happen, but it’s difficult,” said the Hawaiian.

Since his last career victory, at UFC 123, when he beat Matt hugs, Penn has been trying to prove that he can still compete at a high level. History, however, ended up frustrating the icon's plans, who, in his last eight fights, lost seven and drew one.

BJ has not been active since the negative result he suffered for Clay guida, in May last year, in the UFC 237, in Rio de Janeiro. The athlete was negotiating a farewell fight in Ultimate, however, a fight in a bar exit, in Hawaii, in 2019, caused Dana White and his team to cut ties with the fighter, stating that he would no longer perform for the organization.