UFC is not the only promotion who can pay ‘big money’ admits returning Dean Garnett
- Seb Sternik
- 21 January 2023
British MMA veteran Dean Garnett admits the UFC is not the only place where fighters can earn the big bucks.
This Sunday, Garnett will be returning to the octagon for the first time in almost five years as he takes on Miguel Haro at HEXAGONE MMA 6.
The 34-year-old, who has been busy coaching the likes of Muhammad Mokaev in recent years, had his last fight back in 2018 when he defeated former Cage Warriors champion Dominique Wooding.
Garnett has been looking to get back into action for some time and even held talks with the PFL.
He told
Planet Sport: "I was speaking with promotions like the PFL and trying to get on some big shows, but they were saying I needed a fight and I didn't want to go back to a regional show.
"Then this fight in Paris just came to me. I think it was the right timing. It's been a little time out but I'm obviously full-time in the sport, I'm a full-time coach, I've got a coaching degree, I've got my own academy, I've already coached fighters to the UFC from amateur."
Garnett has enjoyed an accomplished MMA career as a fighter though he would like another shot in the big leagues before retirement.
When asked whether he would like a fighting opportunity with the UFC, Garnett said: "Definitely, but I think there's also the PFL and other promotions that can pay big money as well. I still want to get there.
"I did have conversations with the UFC and got an offer from them, but I already signed a contract with ACB. This was when I was 9-0. It was before I went to Chechnya to fight Magomed Magomedov. I've had those offers before.
"I've been in and around that level. I've got a bit of weight to lose and get my physiology back to where it needs to be to compete at that level. But two fights, and if it all goes well I will become the new champion."
Garnett and Haro will square off on January 22 at the historic Zenith arena in Paris. Fans will be able to watch the event live on DAZN.
