.png)
Former UFC welterweight contender Ben Askren has expressed his willingness to have a rematch against Jorge Masvidal. Masvidal recently made headlines by officially announcing his return from retirement. While Masvidal has hinted at a possible boxing match for his return, there is a chance he could face Askren in a mixed martial arts (MMA) bout.
Askren retired from MMA after suffering a submission loss to Demian Maia in 2019 but returned for a boxing match against Jake Paul in 2021, where he was knocked out. Despite having no interest in boxing again, Askren is eager to fight Masvidal in the octagon. Masvidal famously defeated Askren with a flying knee knockout in July 2019, handing Askren his first career loss.
Askren has shown interest in facing Masvidal at UFC 300 in April and is open to coming out of retirement for the fight. He stated that if UFC President Dana White offered him a rematch with Masvidal for UFC 300, he would accept without hesitation. Askren emphasized that he has no intention of boxing again, citing his lack of skill in the sport.
Masvidal has yet to respond to Askren's comments, but their rivalry has continued since their initial fight in 2019. Both fighters have exchanged insults, and Masvidal even assisted Jake Paul in training for his boxing match against Askren in 2021.
If Masvidal does not accept a rematch with Askren, he reportedly has other options, including a potential boxing rematch with Nate Diaz, according to statements made by Jake Paul. However, neither Masvidal nor Diaz has confirmed these plans at this time.