Lyoto Machida is set to take on a new role as a team manager in the inaugural season of the Global Fight League, but he hasn’t completely ruled out the possibility of stepping back into the cage. Initially approached by the GFL to compete, Machida opted to join as a manager alongside coach Andre Pederneiras for the São Paulo team.
Speaking to MMA Fighting, Machida shared, “They invited me as an athlete, but I said, ‘No, I’m away for some time and I’d rather come in as a manager.’ I want to see how it goes, the changes on the organization. I saw the signings, a lot of people getting signed, but we want to see it happening.”
While Machida declined the offer to fight for the GFL, citing that fighting is not his current priority, he expressed his interest in testing himself in a leadership role.
“I came in as a manager, but I’m not taking away the possibility of fighting,” Machida said. “I’m not saying I won’t fight again. It’s not like that. But it’s not a priority for me. It’s a new promotion, I want to see it happen, so I wanted to come in as a manager first to see how it works.”
During his UFC career, Machida achieved victories over notable opponents such as Rashad Evans, Tito Ortiz, and Dan Henderson. After moving to Bellator, he secured wins against Rafael Carvalho and Chael Sonnen before parting ways with the organization following a series of losses.
“The door as an athlete [is open, but] it’s not a priority for me,” Machida said. “I want to see this organization first and be part of it on this side. If an opportunity came, it’s like I’m staying at 60 percent, so I would push the pace and prepare for a fight.”
The GFL roster boasts a lineup of experienced fighters, including five of Machida’s former opponents such as Gegard Mousasi, Yoel Romero, and Chris Weidman.
Machida emphasized the importance of facing the right challenge should he decide to return to competition, stating, “What would make me fight again is maybe a challenge, something that made sense for me. This is not the time to fight a 25-, 30-year-old. It’s the moment to do the right fight, if it has to happen. But right now, it’s not a priority.”