Rafael dos Anjos nearly retired after three surgeries: 'Man, this is it'

Rafael dos Anjos is making his return to the UFC after nearly two years away, facing Alexander Hernandez at UFC 332 on October 3 in Salt Lake City. The former lightweight champion's extended absence stems from a severe knee injury suffered in an October 2024 loss to Geoff Neal—a 90-second stoppage that left him contemplating retirement.

Dos Anjos underwent three surgeries on his left knee during the layoff, a grueling medical ordeal that tested his commitment to the sport. The Brazilian's first doctor attempted to stitch his torn meniscus, a procedure dos Anjos later described as a "terrible mistake." Months into recovery, the meniscus tore again, forcing a second surgery in Austin, Texas. That operation created its own problems: the surgeon left stitches inside his knee, causing inflammation and limiting his range of motion. A third surgery earlier this year finally resolved the issue.

During the rehabilitation process, dos Anjos seriously considered walking away. "For a second, I thought, 'Man, this is it,'" he told Ariel Helwani. However, the 41-year-old decided to push forward, noting he hasn't been dominated in his recent losses and still has four fights remaining on his contract. Now healthy, the 32-17 veteran will attempt to snap a three-fight losing streak against Hernandez (18-9), who arrives off a loss to Rafa Garcia that ended a four-fight winning streak.