Brendan Schaub takes sabbatical from UFC: 'I can't see myself in a f**king Reebok kit'

Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

It looks like Brendan Schaub won't be fighting any time in the near future. The veteran heavyweight announced on Joe Rogan's podcast that he's going to take a sabbatical from the UFC, and was pretty critical of the Reebok deal in the process. Here's what he said on the show (transcribed by Marc Raimondi of MMA Fighting):

"Do I want one more?" Schaub said. "F**k yes, man. But it just doesn't make sense. I can't see myself, when it comes down to this, I can't see myself in a f**king Reebok kit walking out to that Octagon. I can't see myself being like, 'You know what? Cool, man. Yeah, that's what I'm worth. I'm worth 10 grand to you guys. I'm gonna do this.' And I have other opportunities."

Schaub is the co-host of a successful podcast called The Fighter and the Kid along with Bryan Callen, and has stated in the past that he doesn't need to fight. He had also mentioned a drop to light heavyweight, but that won't be happening either. Regardless, Schaub made it clear that he has no issues with the UFC or president Dana White:

"People think I'm this hater on the UFC or whatever -- I owe it to the UFC," Schaub said. "I'll always be indebted to the UFC. People think I have a problem with Dana White. I definitely don't. If Dana was in trouble and texted me right now and said, 'Hey Schaub, I wish you'd quit talking sh*t about Reebok or I need help,' you got it, man. Cool. Done.

"I'll always be a supporter of the UFC. Whatever they need. But for right now, I've gotta take a step away and focus on this crazy frickin' entertainment podcast career I've got going on. I'm so blessed."

...

"I'm stepping away from the game, man," Schaub said. "There's not gonna be no Schaub Reebok kits out there. I won't be fighting anyone any time soon."

The 32-year-old steps away with a 10-5 record overall, and 6-5 in the UFC. His last bout was a TKO loss to Travis Browne.

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