Carlos Condit has whittled down his options concerning what he plans to do next – title shot or retirement.
Condit was last seen against Robbie Lawler at Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) 192. The New Mexico native lost via split decision to Lawler. During the post-fight interview, he made it clear that unless it is another shot at the title, he is calling it a career.
The welterweight title contender recently met with UFC officials to discuss his next move, although it seems that these are the only options that would reel back Condit into the Octagon.
The UFC has yet to make an announcement on his next fight. There are no names yet mentioned as his next opponent, which could be a good sign for 31-year-old fighter. However, that doesn't mean that he has a lock on being Lawler's next foe.
The reason for this is that Condit could be second in line if UFC featherweight champion Conor McGregor successfully snags the lightweight plum from champion Rafael dos Anjos at UFC 196 this April.
The Notorious has hinted that if he succeeds in winning his second title, it will not stop him from aiming for a third belt which is the welterweight title. So with that said, a showdown with Lawler could be considered after April.
Such places Condit in the wings for now, with the UFC likely to see first how McGregor fares against dos Anjos. However, other than that plan, there are division names he may have to jockey with.
Names such as former champion Georges St-Pierre and Stephen Thompson could be in the running as Lawler's next opponent, so it will be interesting to see up to when Condit will wait for a title-fight.
If the UFC decides to prioritize the other names over Condit, his retirement could very well stick. From the looks of it, only a title match this year will likely keep him in the circle. Otherwise, Condit is likely done.
