Diego Ferreira dismisses retirement talk ahead of UFC Vegas 120

Competing in the UFC for more than a decade, Diego Ferreira has seen better days inside the Octagon. At 41 years old, the Brazilian lightweight has gone 2-5 over the past five years, leading many to question whether retirement could be around the corner. Ferreira, however, has no plans to hang up his gloves just yet. Instead, he is preparing for another test this Saturday against Billy Quarantillo at UFC Vegas 120.

Diego Ferreira Not Thinking About Retirement

After making his UFC debut in 2014, Ferreira arguably reached the peak of his career in the years that followed. At one point, the Brazilian veteran put together a six-fight winning streak, including a submission victory over former UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis. Those days may be behind him, but Ferreira insists he is not done yet. Speaking to reporters during UFC Vegas 120 media day, the Brazilian made it clear he still enjoys competing and wants to keep fighting for as long as possible.

"I'm not looking to retire yet," Ferreira began. "A lot of people have been asking me that question, but right now I want to live the moment. I enjoy it here. I like to be a fighter. [...] I want to do this as long as I can."

Diego Ferreira Won't Change His Fighting Style

Known for his aggressive, finish-hunting approach, Ferreira understands that experience has made him a more patient fighter after more than 15 years as a professional. Still, he has no intention of abandoning the style that brought him success. According to the Brazilian veteran, he will always look for the finish, including against Quarantillo.

"You cannot change a warrior. [...] I'll be more seasoned, more patient, but I'm always looking for the finish," Ferreira said. "I'm always looking to bite my mouthpiece and move forward. I want to look for the finish in this one."

Ferreira returns to action this Saturday against Quarantillo looking to snap a two-fight losing streak. After making it clear that retirement is not on his mind, the Brazilian now has the opportunity to back up those words with a strong performance and show he can still compete at the highest level of the sport.