The former UFC champion believes that a victory against Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 298 will earn him a title shot against either Sean O’Malley or Marlon “Chito” Vera in the bantamweight division. However, on the flip side, a loss would mark the end of his fighting career.

“It’s all or nothing,” Henry Cejudo said during the pre-fight press conference for UFC 298. “I’ve had conversations with my team, and I said, ‘It’s win it all or win nothing.’ I either win everything or there’s nothing and I’m out. My combat sports career is over.”

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I am putting pressure on myself because I genuinely value this sport. People say, ‘Oh, you retired’ as if I did everything I could. What the heck? What do I have to prove? Now, my motivation is fueled by anger. I’m a little angry at myself, but there’s still motivation.”

Cejudo did not provide a specific answer about his future when asked directly if he would retire if he lost to Dvalishvili. However, he acknowledged that it adds pressure before the fight, but Cejudo said that’s what he wants.

“Yes, 100 percent, I will retire,” Cejudo said. “It’s a lot of pressure, I know I have to fight. You have to make yourself feel that way. I don’t want to fight for no reason. I’m too competitive. I want to be the best in the world. I want that belt, and I really want another one in the featherweight division. That’s what I’m aiming for.

If I can’t have that, then I don’t want anything else. Why retire? It’s not just about money. I mean, that’s part of it too. I’d be really happy if Dana [White] can give me a raise after I defend both of my belts, but that’s how it is. I have a lot of respect for him.”