Robbie Lawler capped off his legendary UFC run in sensational fashion.
At the peak of his powers, ‘Ruthless’ was the UFC welterweight champion and one of the best 170lb fighters of all time.
The 42-year-old picked up big wins over Johny Hendricks, Carlos Condit, and Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone – but he’ll be remembered most for his Hall of Fame rematch with Rory MacDonald.
In 2024, Robbie Lawler decided to call time on his 47-fight MMA career after one final outing at UFC 290.
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Robbie Lawler signs off in style
Niko Price was the man given the honor of being Robbie Lawler’s retirement opponent last July.
‘The Hybrid’ is known for having wild fights, and it seemed like he was destined for another one at UFC 290.
However, Lawler vs Price was over after just 38 seconds as the former champion rolled back the years with a sensational knockout.
Price slumped to the canvas after eating several big punches in the clinch. The 35-year-old didn’t move when he hit the floor so referee Marc Goddard stepped in, and Lawler wheeled away to celebrate his fairytale send-off.
Things got emotional after that as the UFC paid homage to Lawler with a package of his best highlights.
Lawler is usually one of the most stoic figures in all of combat sports but was visibly moved by the gesture from the promotion. They will rarely go above and beyond in such a way, but it made for one of the feel-good moments of the year.
“This is amazing,” Lawler said after the video finished playing.
“I’ve had a long career, and I’ve had a lot of people help me get to where I am today. Without them none of this is possible and I’m blessed. I’m grateful.”
Mike Perry calls out Robbie Lawler
Conor McGregor didn’t think Lawler’s retirement would last long, and now he’s trying to tempt him to return by offering a big fight in bare-knuckle boxing.
In December, Mike Perry was interviewed on the broadcast of BKFC Hollywood.
“Who should face me next?” he asked. “I see Robbie Lawler in the crowd, and I think he should take the gloves off and step inside the squared circle against ‘Platinum’ Mike Perry.”
The retired MMA star was once matched with Perry during their UFC days, but an injury prevented him from fighting. Ironically, that bout seemed cursed as when Perry did get a replacement opponent, he ended up showing up overweight meaning neither he nor Lawler were ready for fight night.
McGregor is a part-owner of BKFC. The Irishman loves the idea of Perry vs Lawler, he made that much clear as he reacted to the call out on social media.
“What a show! Perry vs Lawler? Gimme,” McGregor tweeted.
Only time will tell if Lawler will be tempted to risk spoiling his perfect swan song by returning in 2025.