UFC lightweight Beneil Dariush might hang up his gloves sooner than fans know. The 36-year-old has suffered knockout losses in three of his last four bouts.

In 2023, Dariush was riding an eight-fight win streak in the promotion. However, things changed quickly when he faced Charles Oliveira in a title eliminator at UFC 289. The Iranian-born fighter could not secure a title shot, as he was TKO’d in Round 1 by “do Bronxs.”

Since then, Beneil Dariush’s only victory came at UFC 317 against Renato Moicano.

Meanwhile, his most recent defeat came at UFC 322, where he was knocked out cold by Benoit Saint-Denis in just 16 seconds. He had also failed to make weight for this bout.

After this loss, the No.12-ranked 155-pounder has teased a move up to welterweight, after a DEXA scan report suggested that moving up would be a safer option.

Beneil Dariush’s next UFC fight could be his last

In a recent interview with REAL MMA TODAY, Beneil Dariush revealed that his next fight could be his last. However, he’s not going to rush and retire. Instead, he will wait and see how his body responds to weight cuts and how he performs. That being said, another loss might compel the 36-year-old to bid farewell to the octagon. He said:

“The truth is I’ve been in the UFC for 12 years, and that’s where I’m at. I just take it one fight at a time. My next fight could be my last one. I honestly don’t know. We’ll see what happens after the fight. I don’t want to rush or anything, but I am praying very hard and trying my best.

However, if Dariush retires, he plans to be connected to the sport in other ways. He added:

“I’m excited for the future. Whether I am fighting or coaching. I still plan on being part of MMA.”

Check out Beneil Dariush’s comments below:

Beneil Dariush says his next fight could be his last😢

“I’ve been in the UFC for 12 years, and that’s where I’m at. I just take it one fight at a time. My next fight could be my last one – I honestly don’t know. We’ll see what happens after the fight. I’m excited for the future;… pic.twitter.com/tY9UJ6knG0

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) February 14, 2026