Niko Price’s retirement at UFC Seattle didn’t last long.
Six months ago, Price squared off versus Michael Chiesa and was quickly submitted in his fourth consecutive loss. Price took off the gloves intending to walk away, but the veteran’s would-be retirement moment was completely overshadowed by “The Maverick” walking away as well. Chiesa received a full promotional video package and walked away on a win in his home city — the perfect storybook ending.
Price, a veteran of 21 UFC fights himself, didn’t
get a moment on the mic at all.
Fortunately, Price has been offered an opportunity for his own last dance inside the Octagon. Per Heavy.com, Price will compete again versus Leon Shahbazyan next month (Oct. 10, 2026) at UFC Vegas 122 inside the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.
This feels like an appropriate matchup for Price’s final trip to the Octagon. Shahbazyan is an unheralded up-and-comer who was quickly destroyed in his UFC debut. Price has struggled mightily in recent years after a bad knee injury and multiple stoppage losses, but this is a clear step back in competition. Whether “The Hybrid” can walk away on a victory remains to be seen, but hopefully the UFC has prepared a nice little sendoff video either way.
Win or lose, Price was a fan favorite action fighter with one of the strangest highlight reels in recent memory.
For the complete UFC Vegas 122 fight card, click here.
