Almeida targeting UFC 250 for comeback fight

Jason Silva-USA TODAY Sports

Bantamweight Thomas Almeida would like to return to the Octagon in the first half of 2020.

After two years struggling with injuries, including a detached retina that required surgery, heavy-handed bantamweight Thomas Almeida feels like 2020 will be the year of his MMA comeback.

In an interview with Combate, the 28-year-old explained his desire to perform at the upcoming UFC 250 card, which will take place in his home town of Sao Paulo, Brazil. He looked to assure his fans that he is now completely recovered and only needs an opponent and a contract to sign.

“I’m looking for a fight now. I would really like to come back here in Sao Paulo. There’s still some time for me to make the final adjustments, pick an opponent and start my camp. I’m 100% recovered and ready to start over again.”

Despite being away from the cage since January 2018, Almeida sees himself making a quick turnaround after his return to the Octagon, planning to be fighting someone in the top five of the rankings in the near future and starting a new title run towards the bantamweight belt.

“If you want to be the champion, you must fight the best and beat them. My goal is to be fighting someone in the top 5 in the near future and try to get a title shot. The belt is always my goal.”

In his last outings, Thomas Almeida (21-3) dropped a unanimous decision to Jimmie Rivera and got TKO’d by Rob Font. His last win was in November 2016, when he knocked out Albert Morales in Sao Paulo.