UFC Liverpool may yet host Michael Bisping’s retirement fight

Michael Bisping has made it very clear that he would prefer to retire in the UK.

Bisping was widely tipped to take to the Octagon one final time when the UFC returned to London earlier this month but a deal could not be reached. 'The Count' had gone back and forth on whether he would even attempt to bow out on a victory but his family were against the idea of one last outing for the British veteran. UFC London came and went but the world's preeminent organisation has since presented Bisping with an opportunity that might be too tempting to turn down. It was announced two weeks ago that, for the first time, the UFC would put on a show in Liverpool and while Bisping is from Manchester originally, Merseyside is not a million miles away. And the former UFC middleweight champion has made his availability known for the card, which will take place at Liverpool's Echo Arena on May 27. "This is a ‘Believe You Me’ exclusive," Bisping said on his podcast.

"UFC, I’m available. If you want me on that card, you’ve got my number."

The main event for UFC Liverpool has already been decided [Darren Till vs. Stephen Thompson] while Gunnar Nelson vs. Neil Magny is expected to be the co-main event on the night. https://twitter.com/JOE_co_uk/status/979362357787922432 It would seem unwise to bury an undeniable draw like Bisping in the middle of a main card just because it so happens to be taking place on UK soil but stranger things have definitely happened and Bisping is more than open to the idea.

"That’s a nice retirement fight," Bisping added. "Liverpool. Northwest of England. That’s where I’m from.

"I am interested in fighting on that card. We’ll see what the UFC comes up with, but yeah, definitely interested, for sure. That would be my last fight."

Several potential opponents have been suggested for Bisping's swansong. A rematch with Rashad Evans, the realisation of a trilogy against Luke Rockhold and a grudge match with Jorge Masvidal have all been discussed. Our heads say that there's no way that Bisping is booked for UFC Liverpool just because he will likely be considered more useful in headlining a different card. Our hearts want to believe he will get his hand raised one last time close to home.