Masvidal Reveals UFC Blocked Netflix Fight as Promotion Plans Bigger Return

Jorge Masvidal has revealed that he was offered a lucrative opportunity to compete on Jake Paul's upcoming MVP card for Netflix, but the UFC intervened with what "Gamebred" describes as bigger plans for his return to mixed martial arts.

The former BMF champion disclosed on his Death Row MMA podcast that he received "a very good, nice offer from Netflix" to appear on the promotion featuring Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano. However, the UFC ultimately prevented the bout from materializing.

"UFC had other plans for me," Masvidal explained. "They said 'No, we're going to use you' and I'll break the news on this podcast who they want me to fight and when and where."

Masvidal's potential involvement with MVP came through discussions with co-founder Nakisa Bidarian, whom the Miami native described in positive terms despite the failed negotiations. The fight would have represented a significant payday for a fighter who has been relatively inactive since retiring from MMA following four consecutive losses.

"I was talking to Nakisa, I get along very well with Nakisa and got nothing but love for him for even thinking of me and calling me up," Masvidal said. "It just didn't work out. I had the first offer before they gave it to Nate [Diaz], it was me and I desperately wanted to take the fight."

The revelation suggests the UFC maintains significant control over Masvidal's fighting activities despite his retirement from mixed martial arts. When the promotion granted him permission to pursue boxing opportunities, they provided a limited list of approved opponents that included Nate Diaz and Mike Perry but notably excluded Jake Paul.

Masvidal's 2024 boxing match with Diaz ended in disappointment both in terms of performance and compensation. The veteran fighter reportedly lost out on $5 million when promoter Fanmio failed to pay his full purse, creating financial motivation for his desired return to competition.

"But the UFC has a good, good plan for me," Masvidal emphasized. "And they told me the plan. I like it and we're going to see it through now."

The timing of Masvidal's withdrawal from a planned Hype Brazil grappling match with Shara Magomedov coincided with Diaz's announcement for the MVP card, suggesting ongoing negotiations with the UFC influenced his decision-making.

Masvidal's star power peaked during the 2019-2021 period when he became one of UFC's most recognizable faces. His knockout of Ben Askren with a flying knee in five seconds, victories over Darren Till and Nate Diaz, and the creation of the BMF title elevated him to main event status during the pandemic boom period.

However, subsequent losses to Kamaru Usman twice and Colby Covington led to his retirement announcement. His attempt to transition to boxing has been complicated by both contractual restrictions and financial disappointments.

The UFC's apparent interest in bringing Masvidal back suggests the promotion recognizes his continued marketability despite his recent struggles. His ability to generate buzz and attract casual fans remains valuable, particularly if matched against the right opponent.

Speculation about potential opponents includes Conor McGregor, who is expected to return during International Fight Week in July. A Masvidal-McGregor bout would represent exactly the type of "good, good plan" that could justify blocking other opportunities.

Masvidal has made several previous announcements about imminent big news that failed to materialize, creating skepticism about this latest revelation. However, his specific mention of UFC involvement and detailed timeline suggests this situation may be different.

The veteran fighter's relationship with the promotion remains complex, balancing his desire for financial opportunities against contractual obligations that limit his options outside the UFC ecosystem.

As Masvidal promises to reveal specific details about his UFC return plans, the mixed martial arts community awaits confirmation of whether "Gamebred" can recapture the momentum that made him one of the sport's biggest stars just a few years ago.