Chael Sonnen launches 2028 presidential campaign

Chael Sonnen announced a 2028 presidential campaign and opened applications for cabinet positions.

The former UFC middleweight title challenger, who was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2024, made the announcement this week, according to MMA Mania. No official campaign platform has been released, though Sonnen's history as one of combat sports' most outspoken personalities suggests the run may be satirical in nature.

Sonnen's political history and media career

Sonnen retired from active competition in 2014 after compiling a 31-17-1 record across the UFC, WEC, and Bellator. He twice challenged for the UFC middleweight title, losing to Anderson Silva in 2010 and 2012, and also fought Jon Jones for the heavyweight/" class="internal-link text-bone underline decoration-ash/30 hover:decoration-gold underline-offset-2">light heavyweight belt in 2013. Since leaving the Octagon, he has worked as an analyst for ESPN and hosts a podcast where he discusses MMA and broader cultural topics.

The Hall of Famer has not indicated whether he will form an exploratory committee or file paperwork with the Federal Election Commission. MMA Mania noted that Sonnen's announcement included a call for prospective cabinet members, though no formal application process was detailed.

Sonnen has not posted about the campaign on his verified social media accounts as of Friday morning.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Sonnen 2028! Chael Sonnen launches presidential campaign, opens call for cabinet members