Beneil Dariush focuses on coaching, hints at UFC retirement plans
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 4, 2026, 6:42 AM
Last updated Nov 4, 2026
Beneil Dariush expressed doubts about returning to the UFC after recent struggles. The veteran lightweight has lost four of his last five fights, all by knockout, including a stoppage at UFC Perth in May 2026. At 37, Dariush is prioritizing coaching over fighting, specifically working with fighters like Uros Medic for upcoming events. He indicated that he is not interested in fighting unless he has a compelling reason and has communicated this to UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby.
- •Dariush has lost four of his last five UFC fights by knockout.
- •His most recent fight was a stoppage loss to Quillan Salkilld in May 2026.
- •Dariush is currently focused on coaching fighters, including Uros Medic.
- •He has communicated reluctance to return to fighting to UFC officials.
- •Dariush has not officially announced his retirement status.
- 6:42 AMYahoo Sports — “I Don’t Know If I’m Willing to Do It Just to Fight” – UFC Fans May Have Seen the Last of Beneil Dariush Inside the Octagon
"Fans may have already seen the last of Beneil Dariush inside the Octagon. The veteran lightweight has endured a difficult stretch lately, losing four of his last five UFC fights, with all four defeats coming by knockout. Most recently, Dariush was stopped by Quillan Salkilld at UFC Perth in May 2026. Before that, he suffered …
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