Ian McCall Admits He ‘Squandered’ His UFC Career: ‘I Walked Away Too Late’

Ian McCall reflects candidly on his MMA journey, admitting that personal struggles prevented him from reaching his full potential.

When the UFC launched its flyweight division in early 2012, McCall (13-7-1 MMA, 2-3 UFC) was arguably the top contender in the world at 125 pounds. He competed in the inaugural four-man tournament alongside Demetrious Johnson, Joseph Benavidez, and Yasuhiro Urushitani to crown the first flyweight champion. Unfortunately, it was during this period that McCall’s career began to unravel.

A scoring error in his first bout against Johnson resulted in a draw, even though McCall had dominated late in the fight and momentum was on his side heading into what should have been a fourth, overtime round. This missed opportunity proved pivotal.

In a rematch four months later, McCall lost via unanimous decision and struggled to regain his footing. Over the next five years in the UFC, he went 2-2 and was plagued by an astonishing ten fight cancellations due to a mix of injuries, personal issues, and circumstances beyond his control.

After parting ways with the UFC in 2017, McCall signed with RIZIN Fighting Federation in Japan, where he dropped consecutive fights to Kyoji Horiguchi and Manel Kape. He hasn’t competed since.

Reflecting on his career in an interview with MMA Junkie, McCall admitted,

“I walked away too late. I shouldn’t have even left the UFC. I should’ve stayed there and tried to get some sort of desk job, which they offered me.”

He went on to describe a low point during a UFC commentator tryout,

“When I showed up, I was on a bender. I did coke in the bathroom, trying to talk more, and I was a mess. UFC gave me every chance. They gave me everything I could’ve truly wanted and I squandered it. Whether that's a title shot or multiple title shots or a job or whatever.”

McCall also shared the toll his addiction took during his time in Japan:

“I had to move on and test the waters in Japan, even though I was snorting Oxycodone before walking out to my fights. No excuses. It’s where my life was at that point. I’m happy it’s over. Do I miss it? Sure. It’s a drug I will never get again. It’s something I miss — walking out to the adoration of fans.”

The fighter’s hindsight is clear. He acknowledges the draw against Johnson was a crushing moment that may have altered his path. Despite this, McCall says he’s found peace.

“If I fought now, we know how famous I would be, how rich I would be — especially if I was sober like I am now. I would probably be looked at as one of the greatest of all time, if not the greatest. I think Demetrious and I would have had more great battles and I would’ve extended my career. If I hadn’t been screwed in that first fight and won it, maybe things would be different? Maybe me not being a junkie would’ve led to 12 world titles like Demetrious. It’s the past, but these are all what-ifs.”

Now 41, McCall still loves MMA and wants to stay involved in the sport. He’s committed to helping athletes, particularly those grappling with addiction and brain injuries. As CEO of the nonprofit Athletes Journey Home, he focuses on recovery using psychedelics and other treatments.

“I’m determined to help those marred with addiction and brain damage,” McCall says.

He also sees a future coaching role in the sport.

“I will eventually coach people, maybe soon. I’m moving to Huntington Beach to be closer to my daughter. Maybe I can start coaching. I’ve reached out to some coaches but haven’t heard back yet. I don’t even need to go to fights — I just need to get my hands on these people because I’ve still got it. I can still beat up kids in the top five, which I’ve done recently. I’m just really good at fighting.”“If I can still give myself to athletes, that’s my life of service. I can help people achieve what I once achieved. I know how rich the dream is within their bodies and minds. If I can help them do that, then I’m happy.”

For the full candid interview, check out Ian McCall’s appearance on The Bohnfire podcast with Mike Bohn below: