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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Matthew Wells and Mike Bohn

Cris Cyborg keeping future combat sports plans quiet, but UFC return out of question: ‘That chapter is closed’

Former UFC women’s featherweight champion Cris Cyborg has no plans to return to the promotion unless it changes how it does business.

Cyborg, the current Bellator women’s featherweight champ, is on the verge of making her professional boxing debut against Simone Silva in Brazil at Fight Music Show 2 on Sept. 25. The bout will be the second combat sports contest for Cyborg in 2022, following her unanimous decision victory over Arlene Blencowe at Bellator 279 to defend her aforementioned title. It’s something Cyborg has wanted to do for many years, and announced her intentions during the post-fight press conference after defeating Blencowe in April.

However, what lies beyond her first walk to the boxing ring is unclear. While currently the Bellator champ, Cyborg isn’t sure how long her run with the promotion will last. Although, she is certain a return to the UFC is not in the cards, based on how business is currently handled.

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