Mark Hunt: I’d like to fight three more times outside the UFC, then retire

Even after brutal losses against top-tier opponents, heavyweight veteran Mark Hunt never really discussed retirement. Ahead of his fight against Curtis Blaydes over the weekend at UFC 221, the 43-year-old “Super Samoan” finally gave himself an ultimatum before he plans to call it quits.

In a pre-fight interview with MMAjunkie, Hunt admitted that he is already feeling his age, as he continues to be matched up against younger and tough opponents.

“I get reminded all the time I am the oldest fighter in the universe,” Hunt said. “I’ve got three fights left with the UFC because I haven’t had a good run with a lot of things that’s happened with them.”

“Everyone knows I’m in court about having to get an even playing field. They called me a whiny bitch, but they can all get (expletive). I survived the era of PRIDE, where everyone knowingly juices. I’m here now and they’re trying to make it even.”

After the Blaydes fight, Hunt now has two more left in his contract. After those are done, he plans to take on a few more fights on a global stage outside the organization, then hang up his gloves for good.

“After the three fights with the UFC, I’d like to fight globally three more times and then retire. Hang it up,” Hunt said. “I want to go out there in my best shape ever and compete. I feel like I can compete still with these young guys, even though they’re half my age.”

After the unanimous decision loss to Blaydes, Hunt now drops to a record of 13-12-1, with one no contest and ten victories by knockout.