Bobby Lashley Talks About Never Signing with UFC for MMA

In a recent interview on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, AEW star Bobby Lashley opened up about his MMA career, including his experience in the sport and his frustration over never being offered the chance to fight in the UFC. Lashley reflected on his time in mixed martial arts, where he made a name for himself with an impressive record and several notable victories. Despite his success in MMA, he shared his disappointment that he was never able to secure a fight in the UFC, the organization he had always hoped to compete in. Lashley discussed the obstacles that kept him from reaching that level, including the politics of the sport and timing issues, but remained positive about his MMA journey. Below are some key highlights from the conversation (via Fightful).

Bobby Lashley on not signing with the UFC for MMA: 

“At the beginning, when I first started fighting, I think there were little talks with it. They said, ‘Yeah, we’ll give him an opportunity, but he needs to work his way up.’ I was like, ‘Okay.’ It was a decision I had to make. One, I could fight for some other organizations that were offering more money. I always thought, if the situation changes in WWE, I thought that was my calling and where I really deserved to be. I just needed time away because of the situation and things going on. I was like, ‘Here is an opportunity for me to keep it open and then go back.’ I didn’t want to lock in a contract with them because I would have to shut off wrestling,”

Bobby Lashley on if he ever had discussions with UFC: 

“Yes, but when I did that I was with TNA and I was like, ‘I don’t want to give up pro wrestling.’ That was the biggest thing. I didn’t want to give up pro wrestling. When I talked to Bellator they were like, ‘We’ll let you pro wrestle.’ Done.”

Throughout his MMA career, Bobby Lashley compiled an impressive record of 15 wins and just 2 losses. Lashley, known for his combination of wrestling expertise and striking power, showcased his athleticism and toughness inside the cage. Over the course of his career, he earned a reputation as a dominant force in the sport, with notable victories in various organizations, including Strikeforce and Bellator.