While getting ready for his second Olympic stint, is Zain Retherford keeping an eye on the news about Jordan Oliver? When these two last faced off on the wrestling mat, the PSU star grinned broadly as he walked off the circle with the victory. Nevertheless, Jordan Oliver was in a cleft stick when it came to another day of facing Zain because, in the meantime, the USADA found him guilty of consuming prohibited substances and issued a banning order.

Since then, a lot has happened as the Easton native has shifted to mixed martial arts while Zain Retherford has become a formidable opponent in the 70-kg weight class in the USA. However, a certain shift is in the works as the MMA star opens his Pandora’s box of secrets. A few days ago, Jordan Oliver announced something big, delivering on his wrestling return in September. Now, he looks to embellish his MMA stint as well. 

Jordan Oliver is all set to head to his second MMA fight 

Jordan Oliver was not in the US Olympic wrestling trial contention, serving his two-year ban, handed down by the USADA. But he also missed his Bellator MMA fight as well. Since his signing for the fold, Jordan has appeared in only one match, almost a year ago. But the wait is over as the stars are aligning for him. Fans are geared to watch the former NCAA star’s return to the cage against Braydon Akeo on August 16. The duo will be pitted against each other in one of the biggest PFL cards of this year in Florida. But the fight is not going to be easy for Jordan for several reasons. 

Since his victory over Andrew Triolo at Bellator 298 last year, the former Oklahoma standout has yet to feature in any cage. Furthermore, in June, he had his fight fixed at PFL 6 against Juan Gandara. But that game could never take place. On the other hand, Braydon Akeo will come with lots of experience in MMA fights. Since debuting in 2019, Akeo has had a bittersweet journey overall. But his endeavors at the RUF and Next Level Fight Club add to his repertoire. So what made Jordan Oliver announce his MMA return against such a name while targeting the world wrestling trials? 

Is preparation for the world team trials on the cards? 

On July 2, Jordan Oliver penned in his wrestling return update, “Ill see yalll September for 70kg World Team Trials”.  The news sent jitters for several reasons, and one of those was his choice at the 70-kg weight bracket. In his wrestling time donning the Oklahoma State Cowboys or the USA jersey, Jordan mainly featured in the 65-kg weight category. He has amassed fame in that category, becoming a three-time US National Championships medalist. Yet, the 34-year-old wants to up the ante and bring about a certain pizzazz. 

In the 2022 US World Team Trials, Jordan appeared on the wrestling mat for the last time. Notably, his last match ended with him getting the short end of the stick as Zain Retherford earned the qualification, defeating him in the Final X. Later, the PSU veteran extended his glory run by claiming silver in the 70-kg weight class at the Belgrade World Championships. Therefore, if he decides to step into the world team trial again this year, he will have to counter the nemesis in Jordan Oliver, coming full circle. Another aspect remains noteworthy. 

Beginning on July 12, 2022, Jordan’s 2-year prohibition order is nearing its end. That inspires him largely to announce his wrestling return. So, the MMA cage fight could provide him the perfect springboard before the world wrestling team trials, scheduled in September. Now, let’s wait for August to gauge Jordan Oliver’s mettle. Who’s going to light up the octagon? Stay tuned for more.