Tito Ortiz aiming for July retirement fight against Chuck Liddell

Light heavyweight legend Tito Ortiz has openly stated his next fight will be his last, a point driven home in December when “The People’s Champion” was stopped with strikes by Antonio Rogerio Nogueira at UFC 140: Jones vs. Machida. Now Ortiz has a date in mind – July 4 Weekend.

Ortiz spoke about his future plans while attending UFC 141: Lesnar vs. Overeem this past Friday night where he also stated his interest in completing one of two trilogies before riding off into the sunset.

“Hopefully the July 4 weekend I’ll be fighting my last fight and I’ll be done, that’s it – time to walk away,” Ortiz revealed in a conversation with MiddleEasy.

UFC President Weighs In on Ortiz’s Future

As far as opponents, Ortiz made his standard mention of Forrest Griffin who he’s split two decisions with before also adding a former rival’s name into the mix.

“I know everybody would love to see me against Chuck (Liddell) – we’ll see what Dana (White) has to offer. Let’s make my last fight a memorable one.”

Ortiz-Liddell is one of the most memorable feuds in UFC history, culminating in huge buyrates and two TKO victories for “The Iceman”. The two nearly fought a third time in 2010 but Ortiz was forced out of the fight due to an injury. Rich Franklin filled his shoes and ultimate beat Liddell, retiring the UFC icon in the process.

July 4, 2012 falls on a Wednesday meaning the likely UFC dates would either be June 30 or July 7.

PHOTO CREDIT – UFC