Exclusive: Jack Hermansson Targets Summer UFC Return After Surgery
Jack Hermansson reveals rehab journey and summer UFC comeback plans in exclusive MMAnytt interview after shoulder surgery.
Hermansson’s Long Road Back: “Slowly but Surely”
UFC middleweight contender Jack Hermansson — known as “The Joker” — has been absent from the spotlight for some time, but the Swedish-Norwegian fighter is now gearing up for a major comeback.
In an exclusive interview with MMAnytt, Hermansson shared details about the surgery that sidelined him and teased an exciting return planned for the summer of 2025.
Hermansson, 36, last competed at UFC Fight Night on February 10, 2024, where he secured a unanimous decision win over rising star Joe Pyfer. Following the bout, Hermansson underwent shoulder surgery in June 2024, requiring a long and intense period of rehabilitation.
“I’ve been injured. I had my last fight in February last year, and after that, it’s been injuries… so that’s what I’ve been working on,”
Hermansson explained to MMAnytt.
The past 14 months have been focused heavily on physical therapy, careful recovery, and a gradual return to form.
“A lot of rehab, I’ve slowly but surely tried to get back to training, but now I’m back in almost full training again, so I hope to be able to fight again this summer.”
Physical Challenges: “The Body Is Rusty”
Hermansson’s journey back hasn’t been easy, especially as he approaches his 37th birthday.
“Yeah, the body is rusty. It’s rusty, you know. But no, there have been many different injuries; I had shoulder surgery in June last year, so that has been part of the rehabilitation.”
While injuries are a natural part of any fighter’s career, Hermansson admitted that recovery becomes more challenging with age.
Despite these hurdles, Hermansson kept close to the sport. He recently traveled to Denmark to coach at Airtox Dominance FC, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to MMA beyond just competing.
UFC Return: “Working on It”
When asked about his return to the UFC octagon, Hermansson was optimistic yet cautious:
“Yes, but in the summer. In the summer. I’m working on it. Hopefully, soon I can come with some good news.”
The comeback seems imminent, although no official fight announcement has been made yet. Fans eagerly speculate who “The Joker” might face next.
In response to whether any opponents have been proposed:
“Eh yes yes yes yes yes,” Hermansson said with a laugh.
Asked if he could reveal any names, he added:
“No, unfortunately. But sometime in the summer.”
Clearly, negotiations are ongoing behind the scenes, and Hermansson’s visible excitement suggests an announcement could happen soon.
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Career Recap: Hermansson’s Journey So Far
Jack Hermansson boasts a professional MMA record of 24 wins and 8 losses. His UFC journey, which began in 2016, has seen him achieve victories over elite competition like:
-
Kelvin Gastelum (submission win)
-
Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza (decision win)
-
Thales Leites (TKO)
Hermansson is currently ranked #12 in the UFC Middleweight division (UFC Official Rankings, April 2025).
His recent victory over Joe Pyfer reaffirmed his elite grappling skills and strategic adaptability, crucial tools he will rely on for his next challenge.
What’s Next for “The Joker”?
Several possible matchups could await Hermansson. Fighters such as Chris Curtis, Nassourdine Imavov, and Brendan Allen would make logical opponents, considering their rankings and current trajectories.
In a prior interview, Hermansson expressed that he always seeks “the biggest challenges available,” a mentality that likely remains unchanged despite his recent injuries.
He has also hinted in earlier conversations with BT Sport that he still feels capable of making another strong run within the division:
“I’m not done. I feel I still have more to give.”
Given the timing, UFC 304 in Manchester, UK this July could be a potential event for his return — a major European card that aligns perfectly with his comeback timeline.
Summary: “The Joker” Returns Soon
After a tough battle with injuries and surgery, Jack Hermansson is back in full training and setting his sights on a summer 2025 UFC return.
At 36, with nearly a decade in the UFC, Hermansson’s journey continues — proof of his resilience, experience, and passion for the sport.
Fans should keep an eye on official fight announcements in the coming weeks, as “The Joker” gears up to once again take center stage.
Stay tuned at MMAnytt.se for the latest exclusive updates on Jack Hermansson and more MMA news!
