Velasquez admits he will only return to the UFC next year

C. Velasquez hasn't fought since 2016 (Photo: Reproduction Facebook Cain Velazquez)

Cain Velazquez hasn't fought since UFC 200, in July 2016, when he knocked out Travis Browne in the first round and put himself close to a title shot. However, the former heavyweight champion's inactivity has left his fans apprehensive. Despite some rumors that he would challenge the current title holder, Stipe MiocicAt the end of the year, Velasquez revealed that he will only return to the Octagon in 2018.

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In an interview with the North American website MMA Fighting, the North American said that he is taking care of all his health problems before returning, as he “owes it to the fans” to be 100% when he actually returns to fight.

“I'm having a good time now with my family and in the process of recovering from all my injuries. My wife and I are expecting a baby in November and I want to be there for her. I have been spending a lot of time with family and recovering. I'm not going back until I'm 100%, I can't go back without being fully recovered, I can't afford that luxury anymore, like I did before. I want to be 100% healed to give a show to my fans. This year, I won't go back. I should only return in 2018”, commented Cain, declaring that he does not expect a title shot upon his return.

“I don’t know, actually. I want to compete, I love it, I love working, training. I haven't been in contact with the UFC and a title fight is not up to me. Let’s see what will happen”, he concluded.