Urijah Faber’s fighting career is not over yet, as he prepares for a matchup outside the UFC. After being inactive for more than five years, the UFC Hall of Famer’s contract expired, leading him to look for opportunities elsewhere. The Global Fight League (GFL) emerged as a new player in 2025 and offered Faber a chance to face his old rival, Renan Barao, in a redemption fight. This highly anticipated showdown will take place on May 24 in Los Angeles as GFL’s inaugural main event.
Despite not actively seeking a fight, Faber was drawn to the prospect of facing Barao, who holds two victories over him. The opportunity presented a mix of challenge and reward that Faber couldn’t resist. His dedication to staying competitive during his hiatus through grappling and mentoring has kept him in top shape for this upcoming bout.
Faber’s temporary retirement has seen him explore various avenues, from competing in jiu-jitsu matches to focusing on his gym, Team Alpha Male. His commitment to maintaining peak physical condition has paid off, as he discovered he possesses the natural testosterone levels of a much younger man.
On the other side, Barao has struggled in recent years, with a string of losses impacting his career. The upcoming trilogy fight between Faber and Barao will mark a significant moment for GFL, with Faber expressing confidence in the new promotion’s success. Whether this fight will be a one-off return for Faber or the start of a new chapter in his fighting career remains to be seen.
“I’m not one to doubt others, and I believe in Darren Owen’s vision for GFL,” Faber stated. “We’ll see the results when the first event takes place. I have faith in the preparations being made, and I’m already gearing up for this challenge.”
Exciting New Opportunities in the World of Fighting
As I ponder on what I truly enjoy doing, one thing stands out – I love to fight. I thrive on competition and being a competitor. With this passion in mind, I have set some ambitious goals and put together a one-of-a-kind setup. I believe that our first show is going to make a significant impact. If everything goes according to plan, everyone involved will be fairly compensated, and I foresee great things in the future.
Reflecting on my conversations with Owen, I have gained insight into his genuine aspirations. It is important to me that this venture is not seen as a rival to the UFC. I hold immense respect for the UFC and am grateful for the support and discussions I have had with their leadership. This project is not about tearing down others; it is about creating more opportunities for fighters and introducing substantial financial rewards. This can only benefit fighters in the long run. If this endeavor proves successful, it could open doors for many aspiring fighters. The potential is vast, and I am eager to see how it unfolds.