Three-Year Reign: Darren Till Reflects on UFC, Misfits Boxing, and Predictions for UFC 319
It has been three years since Darren Till last entered the Octagon, facing a tough defeat against current middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis at UFC 282. While Till has transitioned to professional boxing with the U.K.-based Misfits promotion, he still keeps a close watch on the MMA world that was once his domain.
In a recent appearance on Uncrowned’s “The Ariel Helwani Show” ahead of his upcoming bout at Misfits Boxing 21, Till shared his thoughts on what he perceives as a lack of star power within the UFC in recent years.
“I receive messages daily from fans asking when I will make a return, stating that the UFC needs a superstar,” Till remarked. “While there are still standout fighters like Paddy Pimblett representing Liverpool in the UFC, there seems to be a dimming of the spotlight overall. Fight matchups are not materializing, and there’s a sense of artificiality creeping in.”
“The state of affairs at the moment is disappointing. The welterweight division, which was once a fierce battleground, now appears lackluster. The same can be said for the lightweight, featherweight, light heavyweight, and heavyweight divisions. The only division that seems to be thriving currently is middleweight,” Till expressed. “While I hold a deep respect for the UFC and Dana White, it feels like something is missing.”
Despite closing the chapter on MMA for the foreseeable future, Till remains open to the possibility of a return. However, the financial rewards and personal growth offered by boxing are currently too enticing to ignore. Meanwhile, his former opponent du Plessis is set to defend his UFC middleweight title against Till’s friend and training partner, the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev.
UFC CEO Dana White recently confirmed the matchup as the headline event for UFC 319 in August, reigniting a rivalry that has evolved in divergent directions since their initial clash in 2022. And though their paths have diverged, Till’s animosity towards du Plessis remains palpable. He confidently predicts a new champion will be crowned come fight night.
“Send my regards to Dricus, but also tell him that he’s in for a rude awakening. I can’t stand him because he’s so good,” Till stated. “I believe Khamzat will make quick work of him, likely finishing the fight within two rounds. Khamzat is a beast in training, and I have full faith in his abilities.”
As for his own career, Till is gearing up for a boxing match in Derby, England this Friday against fellow UFC veteran Darren Stewart. Despite being the heavy favorite due to Stewart’s lack of boxing experience and mixed success in MMA, Till remains cautious not to underestimate his opponent.
“In combat sports, underestimating your opponent is a cardinal sin. I learned this lesson the hard way when I faced Jorge Masvidal in the UFC,” Till recalled. “Stewart may not be as skilled a striker as I am, but he is tough and resilient. I cannot afford to let my guard down if I aim to secure a victory on Saturday.”