UFC Hall of Famer Pat Miletich, at 55 years old, is returning to MMA after 15 years to fight Mike Jackson in a grudge match, motivated by a personal character assassination that Miletich claims led to him being removed from a broadcast and ultimately splitting with Legacy Fighting Alliance.
Pat Miletich, a UFC Hall of Famer, never had plans to venture back into the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) at the age of 55. However, circumstances led to his decision to step back into the cage. After an article was published by Mike Jackson, his former friend, highlighting Miletich’s attendance at the rally in Washington D.C. that escalated into the Capital riots, Miletich faced severe consequences. He was removed from a Legacy Fighting Alliance broadcast where he was scheduled to be a color commentator, and as a result, he parted ways with the promotion. The situation spiraled out of control, prompting a promoter to suggest settling their differences with a fight, rather than continuing their feud online.
Miletich blamed Jackson for attempting to destroy his life through a personal character assassination. He viewed it as a troubling example of cancel culture, where someone would intentionally set out to ruin another person’s life simply due to a difference of opinion. Although Jackson denied any role in Miletich’s departure from LFA, the animosity between them culminated in their upcoming fight.
Defying the odds, Miletich aimed to prove that age is not the ultimate adversary for high-level athletes. Recognizing the rarity of success for fighters in their 40s, Miletich acknowledged the challenges he faced. Despite feeling that this phase of his life was behind him, he committed himself to a rigorous training camp. Miletich approached his training differently than in his younger days, prioritizing injury prevention while still maintaining confidence in his power, speed, endurance, grappling, and striking ability. He cited the importance of making adjustments, eating well, and persevering to achieve one’s goals.
Throughout his preparation, Miletich encountered moments of doubt but remained determined to inspire others who believed they were too old to accomplish their aspirations. He offered advice to individuals in their 30s, 40s, 50s, or even 60s, emphasizing that with the right mindset, nutrition, and hard work, one can achieve more than they think they are capable of.
Though Miletich acknowledges the odds stacked against him as he enters the ring in his mid-50s, he believes his age may even out the playing field. He dismissed Jackson’s confidence in defeating him, emphasizing his durability and lack of concussion symptoms throughout his career. Miletich remains convinced that Jackson lacks the necessary speed, power, and athleticism to pose a significant threat.