Despite parting ways with the UFC in 2022 after a substantial career spanning 15 years and over 30 fights, Jeremy Stephens didn`t leave on bad terms. He explored new paths in the combat sports world.
Following his UFC departure, Stephens ventured into professional boxing, competed in MMA under the PFL banner, and then achieved significant prominence in bare-knuckle boxing with an undefeated run in BKFC. This successful bare-knuckle streak culminated in a memorable win against former UFC champion Eddie Alvarez, a performance highlighted by breaking Alvarez`s jaw. While this success seemed to pave the way for further BKFC opportunities, Stephens instead opted for an unexpected move: a one-fight deal to return to the UFC for an event on May 3rd in his hometown of Des Moines, Iowa.
So, how did this surprising return actually come about?
Stephens clarified that he wasn`t released by the UFC; rather, he chose to seek opportunities elsewhere. Although he felt there might have been a slight perception of tension, he maintained a positive relationship with Dana White upon leaving. Watching the UFC from outside, he realized he still felt capable of competing at that level, noting that he believed he could defeat some of the fighters currently on the roster. The thought of returning was always present, partly inspired by the late Anthony Johnson, who successfully returned to the UFC after competing elsewhere, securing significant paydays and a title shot.
His wife encouraged him to reach out to Dana White. Stephens, having navigated through challenges in his career (“dragged myself out of the ring well”), decided to take a chance and message White. He asked his wife to draft a message, which he then sent.
Stephens ended up messaging UFC CEO Dana White via Instagram and received a prompt positive response.
Coincidentally, Stephens was visiting Des Moines that week. While handling personal matters and seeing family, locals were excited about his bare-knuckle success and suggested he should be on the upcoming Des Moines UFC card. He mentioned he had messaged “uncle Dana,” and White replied the day Stephens was leaving town. White explained he hadn`t had Stephens` number and had been meaning to contact him, stating he would have Hunter Campbell follow up.
Stephens described the sequence of events as “crazy how it all came together,” but also sees it as a result of his long career and hard work. He appreciates the opportunity, a “one-off deal” that he found to be “really good.” He views the fight as a chance to “handle business” and create “more buzz” by competing in his hometown, staying active as he desired.
Stephens readily accepted the one-fight contract, expressing strong confidence in his ability to defeat Mason Jones on May 3rd.
More than anything, the 38-year-old veteran was driven by the opportunity to fight in his hometown, a rarity since Iowa isn`t a frequent host for major combat sports promotions.
For most of his career, Stephens carried his connection to home with him on the road, but now he gets to experience the spotlight and perform for a passionate audience in Des Moines.
Stephens emphasized his dedication to representing Iowa, stating, “I bring 515 to Brazil,” referencing the Des Moines area code. He boldly proclaimed, “There’s nobody that represents the 515 [like me]. I’m the best to ever do it out of Des Moines, Iowa.”
He expressed happiness for the people of Des Moines, calling Iowa a “flyover state” that rarely hosts such events. He noted it`s been 17 or 18 years since a major card like this came to town and feels it`s the right timing, with him being a prominent figure (“I`m the card”). He is confident the local fans will enthusiastically support the event.
Although currently slated to open the main card for UFC Des Moines, Stephens feels like the true headliner, citing the positive reception he received after announcing his return.
Knowing the crowd will react strongly to his entrance, Stephens is confident that despite the official order, Iowa will treat him as the main event fighter.
“The real f*cking main event!” Stephens declared. He reflected on facing challenges elsewhere, including negativity from promoters and others (“walk through fire in Philly, get shit on by my promoters… trying to ring me through the mud”), contrasting it with the current support he`s receiving. He emphasized maintaining focus during the fight itself, drawing a parallel to Iowa`s own Caitlin Clark and her ability to stay focused despite immense popularity. He believes the Iowa crowd understands “who the real f*cking main event is” and what he brings to the cage. Reiterating his claim as the best fighter to come from Iowa, he looks forward to the supportive atmosphere after enduring difficult times elsewhere. His immediate focus is solely on defeating his opponent (“get that f*cking dude out of there”) to finish the job, envisioning a victory celebration where he screams “515” and gets “absolutely ape shit.”
Stephens acknowledges that his previous run with the UFC concluded with tough losses and the notable altercation with Drakkar Klose that resulted in their fight`s cancellation.
Recognizing this might be his only return fight, Stephens is determined to make the absolute most of the opportunity.
“I don’t forget about the dark days,” Stephens stated, keeping “that chip on my shoulder.” His goal is to prove to himself that he still belongs at the highest level and remains a dangerous competitor. Using an analogy from the movie The Ring, he described feeling like he was “at the bottom of that f*cking well,” having to “crawl out bare-knuckle” and “prove my f*cking worth,” putting “my shit on the f*cking line.” He feels he is now recovering his full capabilities (“getting all my tools back”) and is ready to cause “f*cking havoc on these motherf*ckers,” creating this new opportunity for himself.
