Cain Velasquez in talks with Real American Freestyle, says coach Javier Mendez

The former UFC heavyweight champion has not fought in MMA since Francis Ngannou knocked him out in 26 seconds in 2019. Mendez says Daniel Cormier is "too busy".

By Combat Sports UK Staff · Published Tue 20 Oct, 21:13 UK · AI-assisted reporting

Cain Velasquez holding a newspaper reading Cain Velasquez in talks with RAF — Original graphic: Combat Sports UK

Cain Velasquez is in discussions with Real American Freestyle, according to Javier Mendez, who coached him along with Khabib Nurmagomedov and Daniel Cormier.

Mendez was asked which of the three former champions is most likely to sign with the wrestling promotion, and he did not hesitate.

"Cain Velasquez. Hands down, Cain Velasquez," Mendez told MMA Junkie. "DC's too busy. Cain Velasquez would be the best candidate with them and actually, we're in discussions with them. So, Cain Velasquez is coming to RAF soon."

Velasquez has not fought in MMA since February 2019, when Francis Ngannou knocked him out in 26 seconds in the UFC. That fight was the first of a new four-fight UFC deal, and he announced his retirement from MMA several months later. Earlier this year he did not rule out a return to MMA, and he has recently been linked with grappling matches.

RAF recently launched its rankings, which feature many of the athletes it has signed from MMA.