An article at European sports service www.sportal.hr has come in contact with Mirko Cro Cop's camp. Apparently the Croatian striker was "surprised" and not aware of Dana White's deadline of Monday Feb. 4th; the latest Mirko could notify UFC president Dana White of whether or not he planned to retire. He also stated that he is ready to face anyone, including current interim champion Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira.

Mirko Cro Cop Filipovic is currently coming off of two disappointing losses. A vicious knockout to Gabriel Gonzaga at UFC 70 and a decision loss to Cheick Kongo at UFC 75. He is regarded by many as one of the top strikers in all of Mixed Martial Arts.