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Stefan Struve explains decision to return to fighting: ‘I was just burnt out’

Earlier this year, Stefan Struve wasn’t sure if he wanted to continue fighting, but today, that’s a different story.

The long-time UFC heavyweight announced his possible retirement back in February after snapping a three-fight losing streak with a submission win over Marcos Rogerio de Lima in the co-main event of UFC Prague. In his post-fight speech, Struve thanked the fans for the support and made no promises to ever set foot in cage again, leaving his gloves behind as most retired fighters do in their last bout.

Fast forward six months and Struve has a new six-fight deal with the Las Vegas-based promotion and a date to take on fellow veteran Ben Rothwell at UFC on ESPN 7 on Dec.