Jacaré closes the door on returning to MMA, but plans boxing fights against Borrachinha and Belfort

R. Jacaré retired from MMA in 2021. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Great Brazilian name in sport in the decade, Ronaldo Jacare announced his retirement in November 2021, after being released by the UFC, but is already evaluating his plans for the future. In an interview with the podcast 'French Exchange', the Brazilian declared that he no longer wants to compete in another organization and says he is interested in potential boxing clashes.

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“Honestly, I have no desire to fight MMA again. I've fought a lot and I have no interest in fighting MMA again. Boxing, however, you train hard but you don't get hurt, so it's something you can do. People will ask me about jiu-jitsu, but I've fought jiu-jitsu my whole life. I'm just a teacher now (laughs). But we want a different challenge. That’s it,” said Jacaré.

Willing to fight big boxing fights, Ronaldo also expanded his horizons and talked about a possible rematch against Vitor belfort in modality. Furthermore, he revealed an interest in attracting the attention of Paulo borrachinha, who is in trouble with the UFC, to compete in the 'noble art'.

“Vitor doesn’t like easy money? (laughs), I have all the respect for Belfort, I'm not disrespecting him. But I don't think that fight will happen. I think a fight with Borrachinha would also be cool because it's a different generation. I'm not disrespecting Borrachinha, I just think it would be a good fight. Everyone would like it, different generations. Borrachinha (has) heavy hands (…) He's still fighting in the UFC, he has a contract, I don't know if he would go into boxing. We will see. I think it would be cool,” he finished.

Legend of jiu-jitsu, Ronaldo gained worldwide fame for his performances in the 'gentle art' and during his professional MMA days. The fighter reached the top of mixed martial arts when he worked for Strikeforce and, during most of his career in the UFC, he was in the middleweight elite (up to 83,9kg).

The Brazilian left Ultimate after a run of four defeats in the last five appearances. His last commitment in the UFC took place in May 2021, when the athlete ended up being surpassed by his compatriot André Sergipano.