Vitor Belfort (photo via UFC)

By FCF Staff

The narrative leading up to UFC 212 is that it will mark the final fight of Vitor Belfort’s career, but it looks like that may not be the case.

Belfort is booked to face Nate Marquardt at the June 3rd card, and the fight will be the final one on “The Phenom’s” current, UFC deal. After Belfort was stopped by Kelvin Gastelum in March, the Brazilian star said his next bout would be the last with the UFC, unless the promotion created a legend’s division. There’s been no indication that the UFC is going to do this, so, many have speculated that the 40 year-old Belfort will retire after the event.

But, recently Belfort spoke with Veja Rio, and the legendary fighter said this (quote via MMA Fighting):

“(I will) leave the UFC, but I’ll continue competing. Fight is my passion. Too bad that MMA hasn’t become a serious sport yet. Maybe I’ll help change this scenario.”

Belfort will be looking to end a three fight, winless streak at UFC 212. The upcoming card will take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.