“That Flying Knee Changed His Life”: Dana White Reflects Back on Jorge Masvidal’s Career After Latter’s Retirement at UFC 287

UFC 287 saw the curtains fall over one of the most popular fighters in the sport as Jorge Masvidal hung up his gloves in front of the Miami card following his defeat in the co-main event. After the three-rounder with Gilbert Burns, which ended in a unanimous decision victory for the Brazilian, ‘Gamebred’ confirmed his retirement and sent out a heartfelt message hoping that he’d inspire someone in the crowd through his career.

Masvidal’s retirement didn’t come as a shock considering that he already confirmed the possibility of it earlier heading into the fight as well. Following the event, UFC President Dana White, when asked about the veteran, opened up about his career and the specific moment that changed its trajectory.

Dana White talks about Jorge Masvidal’s career

Speaking to the media, White, when asked about the 38-year-old’s retirement, expressed that it was the right time for Masvidal to hang up his gloves considering that he had multiple ventures beyond the cage as well. White then also added the fact that the veteran was already contemplating retirement meant it was the perfect decision to take after the fight.

“As soon as you think about retiring, you know you should, in this business; and he’s made a lot of money. He made a lot of money tonight and you know he’s got things outside the Octagon going on too like Conor [McGregor] does “

For the UFC president, Masvidal’s career took a turnaround at one specific moment back in 2019. Pointing to his flying knee KO of Ben Askren, he claimed that it was a life-changing moment for the fighter.

“That flying knee changed his life you know… when he threw that flying there it changed his whole life,” White stated.

Fans would also agree with White in this regard. 2019 turned out to be Masvidal’s best year with major wins over Darren Till and Nate Diaz. But it was his five-second flying knee KO of Ben Askren that sealed him as a superstar in the sport.

Masvidal makes a heartfelt retirement speech following loss at UFC 287

For the veteran, the fight against Burns came as a perfect opportunity to find another massive turnaround in his career after suffering three consecutive losses. Unfortunately, Masvidal fell short as ‘Durinho’ came in with a great game plan that neutralized any chance that the Miami native had of winning the fight. But despite losing, UFC 287 gave him a great opportunity to retire in front of his home crowd.

Emphasizing how the UFC’s first event in Miami inspired him, ‘Gamebred’ hoped that he too would serve as an inspiration for the people in the crowd.

“I don’t feel the same when I get in here no more. It’s been 20 long years. I love all of you. UFC came here 20 years ago, and it inspired me to chase this dream for 20 years. 50-something fights later, I hope I inspired somebody in here to go fight no matter what it is.” He expressed.

Read More: After Retiring Jorge Masvidal, Gilbert Burns Threatens to Leave the UFC: “If You Don’t Give Me…”

Ultimately, there’s no doubt that Masvidal will be missed by his fans. His personality and fighting style brought in an entertainment factor that very few fighters are able to do in the sport. Maybe ‘Gamebred’ can now move on to running a successful promotion and businesses like Dana White pointed out.

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