It appears the end is in sight for UFC legend Vitor Belfort.
The 40-year-old middleweight announced his intention to retire following his co-main event against Uriah Hall at UFC St. Louis this weekend, and added that a potential return down the road is not totally out of the question - although it would come with a hefty price tag.
"I will start to open my gym franchises on Monday," Belfort told reporters Thursday, according to Guilherme Cruz of MMA Fighting. "I’m investing in my businesses. I think it’s time to rest my body, so I’m focused on the franchises of Belfort Fitness and Lifestyle, not only in the United States but also in Brazil."
"Ten million dollars or more, to start the conversation," Belfort added regarding a potential return in the future. "That’s the number. And then we start talking.
"A lot of money. A lot of money. Many millions," he continued. "Anyway, I will always train and dedicate myself. I have a lot of friends fighting, so I will always be prepared because I love doing this, this is my lifestyle, but it has to be very, very, very interesting because I’m happy with this decision."
Heading into Sunday's bout with Hall, Belfort holds a career MMA record of 26-13 (1), with his most recent victory coming over Nate Marquardt by unanimous decision at UFC 212.
