The weekend of July 18-19 is a gladiator’s playground, and the spotlight is fixed firmly on UFC veterans who refuse to fade quietly into the sunset. From MMA cages to karate mats and the unforgiving bareknuckle rings, these seasoned warriors are making their presence felt once more. While UFC 318 headlines in New Orleans with Max Holloway clashing against Dustin Poirier for the BMF title, a parallel universe of combat sports is bubbling with intrigue, grit, and the raw hunger of fighters hungry to reclaim or redefine their legacies.
These aren’t your average walk-ons. Whether it’s Robelis Despaigne, Chase Sherman, or Alan Belcher, the battlegrounds span from Karate Combat’s electrifying bouts to Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship brutality and regional MMA promotions like Cage Warriors and LFA. Each marks a different chapter in the post-UFC narrative, proving that the fight game doesn’t stop when the octagon doors close. It’s a wild mix of redemption, evolution, and sometimes just desperate attempts to stay relevant.
Last week served as a reminder that veterans still pack a serious punch: Carlos Felipe delivered a dominant unanimous decision at ACA 189, while others like Cameron Else showed that even stars can stumble outside the UFC spotlight. Meanwhile, bareknuckle contests, kickboxing, and karate tournaments fill the calendar, showcasing a cross-genre showcase of elite striking, grappling, and old-school toughness.
Let’s break down the key players, upcoming matchups, and what this weekend’s action says about the post-UFC careers of these fighters — because in 2025, the battle for respect and survival is as fierce and unpredictable as ever.
UFC Veterans Returning to MMA and Regional Scenes: Redemption or Rut?
The MMA world outside the UFC is a maze for veterans — some find new life, others just tumble down the rabbit hole. Take Carlos Felipe, for instance. At ACA 189, he crushed Mukhamad Vakhaev with a unanimous decision that screamed, “I’m still here!” The guy’s not just collecting fights; he’s building a resume to remind fans that UFC wasn’t the whole story. Contrast that with Cameron Else, who faced a harsh TKO loss at Cage Warriors 192. It’s a reminder that leaving the UFC doesn’t guarantee killer performances; sometimes it’s a slow slide down the rankings.
What keeps fighters coming back? For some like Jesse Butler and Melvin Guillard, the hunger clashes with harsh realities: Melvin’s 1-10 record since UFC exit, combined with his 2-6 bareknuckle scrap tally, tells a salty tale of grit fighting flight. Butler’s still looking to find his footing with Fury FC 106 coming up, facing Carlos Calderon. Every fight’s a fork in the road: career resurrection or final curtain call.
This patchwork of regional promotions — from LFA, Glory kickboxing bouts, to Cage Warriors — is a proving ground littered with hope and heartbreak. UFC vets juggling these can’t rely on their previous clout. They must adapt, evolve, or ram headfirst into obscurity. Calls to stay relevant echo loudly in these arenas where every punch and submission tells an epic tale of veteran survival.
- Veterans like Carlos Felipe dominate post-UFC ACA events.
- Cameron Else’s recent TKO at Cage Warriors shows volatility outside the UFC.
- Jesse Butler and Melvin Guillard’s struggles underline the high stakes of comebacks.
- Regional promotions offer both lifelines and graveyards for veterans.
- Success now depends on adaptation, not just past UFC pedigree.
| Fighter | Promotion | Last Result | Record since UFC exit | Upcoming Fight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carlos Felipe | ACA 189 | Unanimous Win | Notable wins post-UFC | N/A |
| Cameron Else | Cage Warriors 192 | TKO Loss | Mixed results | N/A |
| Jesse Butler | Fury FC 106 | Upcoming vs. Carlos Calderon | 0-0 since UFC exit | July 18 |
| Melvin Guillard | Ohio Combat League | Submission Loss | 1-10 MMA, 2-6 BK since UFC | July 18 vs. Isaac Moreno |
UFC veterans like Melvin and Jesse prove post-UFC life isn’t a cakewalk — it’s a hardcore grind where the extroverted bravado meets cold, hard reality. Sometimes a jab isn’t as sharp as their pre-fight trash talk, but their heart? That’s still pure fire.
Karate Combat and Bareknuckle MMA: Old Dogs, New Rules, Same Fight Spirit
The July 18 karate bouts at Karate Combat 55 are a spotlight for names like Robelis Despaigne, Chase Sherman, and Tim Johnson — veterans who’ve traded the cage for the elevated platform of karate’s fast-paced, brutal combat. Despaigne stands undefeated in karate with a 3-0 record since his UFC exit, proving that switching gears isn’t just refreshing; it’s a strategy.
Karate Combat’s hybrid of traditional strikes and restricted ground game demands a sharp shift in tactics. Veterans used to the chaos of UFC’s cage must now rely on razor precision and timing. The hand-eye coordination drills in the gym suddenly carry the weight of their careers. Sherman’s 1-0 boxing and 2-1 bareknuckle record add layers to his unpredictable style. Tim Johnson, meanwhile, brings a 6-8 MMA record post-UFC that’s sprinkled with hard lessons and a decision win over Marcelo Golm back in 2018. The trilogy of Sherman, Despaigne, and Johnson illustrates a fascinating battleground where the past UFC toughness clashes with new striking nuances and karate footwork.
Bareknuckle MMA adds a bitter cocktail to the mix. Look at Alan Belcher, with a spotless 4-0 in bareknuckle boxing alongside 5-0 in boxing — a former UFC middleweight who’s reinvented his fight craft. His undefeated bareknuckle streak isn’t just luck; it’s brutal discipline masked by old-school swagger. Braxton Smith also steps into karate combat with a bareknuckle boxing win, proving bare fists can still make big noise.
- Karate Combat tests UFC vets’ adaptability with intense striking rules.
- Robelis Despaigne’s 3-0 karate record shows a successful style switch.
- Chase Sherman showcases diverse skills with boxing and bareknuckle experience.
- Alan Belcher dominates bareknuckle with an undefeated record in two disciplines.
- Bareknuckle MMA blends old-school aggression with modern strategy.
| Fighter | Karate Combat Record | Bareknuckle Boxing Record | Boxing Record | Upcoming Fight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robelis Despaigne | 3-0 | 1-2 in UFC | N/A | July 18 vs. Saulo Cavalari |
| Chase Sherman | N/A | 2-1 | 1-0 | July 18 vs. Tim Johnson |
| Tim Johnson | N/A | N/A | N/A | July 18 vs. Chase Sherman |
| Alan Belcher | 0-1 bareknuckle MMA | 4-0 | 5-0 | July 18 vs. Zac Pauga |
| Braxton Smith | N/A | 1-0 | N/A | July 18 vs. Daniel James |
The beauty of karate and bareknuckle stages is their demand for warriors who don’t just throw wild haymakers like granny hunting her glasses; they strike with cold intent. These veterans bring UFC seasoning but must adjust to a tempo that doesn’t forgive lapses. Those who master these arts prove that fighting is forever — sometimes with gloves off and spirits burning brighter than ever.
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship: UFC Alums Keeping It Old School
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) has become the haunt for many UFC veterans who crave the raw brawl vibes of bare fists against bare fists. If you thought the UFC was brutal, BKFC turns the pain dial up to eleven. Fighters like Drako Rodriguez and Robbie Peralta recently dipped their toes in BKFC 78, with Rodriguez taking a split decision loss and Peralta scraping a majority draw. A friendly reminder that bareknuckle fights are dirty, unforgiving, and all about heart and chin.
Consider Corey Anderson, who, after a knockout loss to Jan Blachowicz inside the UFC cage back in 2020, is now owning the post-UFC game with an impressive 5-1 record in other promotions including Bellator. Anderson’s bout against Denis Goltsov at the PFL Champions Series Africa on July 19 is more than just a fight; it’s a statement that UFC veterans can still crush foes worldwide.
Juan Adams is another fascinating figure, traversing MMA and bareknuckle MMA with a respectable 5-3 and undefeated 2-0 bareknuckle record post-UFC. His upcoming clash with Juan Torres at Hybrid FC 2 could be a barn burner. On the other hand, fighters like Kevin Croom balance MMA, bareknuckle, and regional bouts with a modest 1-0 MMA and 2-1 bareknuckle since leaving the UFC.
- Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship = no-nonsense brawling for UFC alumni.
- Drako Rodriguez and Robbie Peralta show how brutal BKFC bouts can get.
- Corey Anderson’s cross-promotion success defines veteran resilience.
- Juan Adams mixes bareknuckle and MMA, aiming to prove his worth.
- Kevin Croom juggling MMA and bareknuckle for multiple bites at the apple.
| Fighter | Promotion | Bareknuckle Record | MMA Record Since UFC Exit | Upcoming Fight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drako Rodriguez | BKFC 78 | Split Decision Loss | Mixed | N/A |
| Robbie Peralta | BKFC 78 | Majority Draw | Unpredictable | N/A |
| Corey Anderson | Bellator, PFL | N/A | 5-1 (1 NC) | July 19 vs. Denis Goltsov |
| Juan Adams | Hybrid FC 2 | 2-0 | 5-3 | July 19 vs. Juan Torres |
| Kevin Croom | Midwest Fight League 209 | 2-1 | 1-0 | July 19 vs. Isaac Ware |
Bareknuckle MMA is the unforgiving arena where UFC-style skill meets primal brawling. Veterans who switch the gloves for knuckles often come back with a new edge — if their chin and heart hold up. This weekend is a prime example that the fight game is a ruthless chess match, and these vets play for keeps.
From UFC Spotlight to Global Combat: How Veterans Navigate the Modern Fight Landscape
It’s 2025, and the fight world is a puzzle with pieces scattered from the UFC to ONE Championship, Bellator, Invicta FC, and beyond. Veterans who once basked in UFC glory now hop between different platforms, from karate combat mats to bareknuckle rings, and even regional MMA hubs like LFA or Cage Warriors. This multi-promotion dance demands versatility, resilience, and a hell of a lot of heart.
Take Corey Anderson’s journey: his knockout loss to Jan Blachowicz at UFC on ESPN+ 25 in 2020 didn’t end his story. Instead, it marked the start of a killer run across Bellator and the PFL. Then there’s Alex Oliveira, bouncing between the cages and karate combat, juggling wins and losses but always showing that warrior spirit alive and kicking. Lorenz Larkin’s 9-3 (1 NC) since UFC exile proves veterans can thrive if they adapt.
But it’s not just about wins or records. The modern fight landscape tests mental toughness, technical evolution, and the ability to market oneself. While UFC may remain the pinnacle, the likes of Glory kickboxing and Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship have carved out arenas where veterans can carve new legacies. A reminder: the fight game isn’t a retirement plan; it’s a relentless beast that demands respect every damn time.
- Veterans must juggle diverse promotions: UFC, Bellator, ONE Championship, Invicta FC, PFL, Glory, BKFC, KSW, Cage Warriors, LFA.
- Success comes from blending skill, adaptability, and toughness.
- Corey Anderson and Lorenz Larkin are poster boys for post-UFC evolution.
- The modern fight market demands much more than just in-cage performance.
- Veterans’ journeys show the fight game’s brutal, beautiful complexity.
| Fighter | Promotions Active | Post-UFC Record | Notes | Next Fight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corey Anderson | Bellator, PFL | 5-1 (1 NC) | Resilient and evolving | July 19 vs. Denis Goltsov |
| Alex Oliveira | Karate Combat, Regional MMA | 3-4 | Journeyman with grit | July 19 vs. Ilyas Khamzin |
| Lorenz Larkin | Bellator | 9-3 (1 NC) | Thrives post-UFC | July 19 vs. Randall Wallace |
| Juan Adams | Hybrid FC 2 (Bareknuckle MMA) | 5-3 MMA, 2-0 BK | Active in multiple disciplines | July 19 vs. Juan Torres |
| Kevin Croom | Midwest Fight League, BKFC | 1-0 MMA, 2-1 BK | Multi-discipline competitor | July 19 vs. Isaac Ware |
Veterans are more than just fighters; they’re survivors navigating a labyrinth of promotions, styles, and fan expectations. Their journeys reveal that while the UFC may be the apex, true combat athletes never quite stop proving themselves — even if it’s on a bareknuckle stage far removed from the bright lights of the octagon.
Looking Ahead: The UFC 318 Effect and Post-UFC Veteran Influence in Combat Sports
While UFC 318 and its electrifying headliner between Holloway and Poirier draws all eyes, the ripple effect of veteran fighters spilling over into MMA’s multi-discipline ecosystem keeps echoing. Veterans shaping karate, bareknuckle, and regional MMA scenes aren’t just filling undercards; they’re redefining what it means to be a fighter in 2025.
From the cage confrontations teased by Jorge Costa to the ongoing intrigue around rising names and veterans at UFC Perth and other global hotspots, the fight game buzzes with stories of legacy, redemption, and the hunger to remain relevant. Veteran fighters crossing into different formats keep their legacies alive and fans engaged — even when the UFC cameras fade.
The bitter truth? Not every post-UFC path leads to gold. But when they hit the mark, the payoff is electric. The likes of Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier headline THE event, while others compete in parallel universes of combat sports. This interplay keeps fight fans glued from legitimate MMA bouts in Bellator and ONE Championship to bareknuckle brawls and karate special events. The fight scene just got a hell of a lot more interesting.
- UFC 318 delivers a heavyweight dose with the Holloway-Poirier showdown.
- Veteran fighters’ cross-platform presence enriches combat sports diversity.
- Events like UFC Perth and ongoing regional promotions keep the energy alive.
- Veterans push the boundaries across MMA, karate, and bareknuckle realms.
- The future of combat sports embraces these multiple fight styles and stars.
| Event | Headliners | Veterans Featured | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UFC 318 | Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier (BMF Title) | Several veterans across leagues | July 18 | New Orleans, Louisiana |
| Karate Combat 55 & 56 | Robelis Despaigne, Chase Sherman, Alan Belcher | Top ex-UFC fighters | July 18-19 | Various |
| BKFC 78 | Drako Rodriguez, Robbie Peralta | Ex-UFC competitors | July 18-19 | Various |
| PFL Champions Series Africa | Corey Anderson | Post-UFC powerhouse | July 19 | Africa |
| Midwest Fight League 209 | Kevin Croom | Veteran making moves in MMA & BKFC | July 19 | Midwest, USA |
The UFC 318 event bubbles with tension and veteran energy, but the real story? The amazing cross-pollination of talent across MMA, karate, and bareknuckle domains that show no signs of slowing down. The Holloway-Poirier showdown might steal the headlines, but the weekends fight calendar is filled with veterans who refuse to let the game pass them by.