Michael Chiesa has hinted that his fight at UFC Seattle on March 28 could be the last time he steps into the Octagon.

The event, set for the Climate Pledge Arena, will see former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya take on Bo Nickal in the main event.

Chiesa, who faces Carlston Harris, hasn’t fought since June of last year. He heads into this bout having won three straight fights after previously losing three in a row, showing he still has something to offer.

But even with those recent wins, the 38-year-old hinted this might be his last appearance inside the Octagon. Speaking with UFC.com, Chiesa explained that retirement has been on his mind:

Michael Chiesa on why UFC Seattle feels like the right moment to step away

Chiesa has been a part of the UFC scene since 2012, signing on after winning The Ultimate Fighter. Over his career, he’s fought his way into lightweight title contention before eventually making the switch to welterweight.

Even with a chance to extend his current three-fight winning streak, Chiesa has hinted this may be his last fight. Speaking ahead of UFC Seattle, he explained why he feels it could be the right time to walk away.

“I mean, 22 is my number, dude. People who don’t know, my hero was my Grandpa Derrelle. My family had a race track and he had a racing team — his number was 22,” Chiesa told The Ariel Helwani Show.

“That’s why I have 22 tattooed on my chest. My wedding ring has a diamond 22 on it. 22 is my favourite number so for this to be my 22nd UFC fight in Seattle on my parents’ anniversary, I feel like the universe is telling me something.”

“I wasn’t gonna be this open about it; it’s just hard not to,” said Chiesa ahead of his meeting with Harris.

“I don’t know what’s next; I don’t know if this is the last one but if it is, it’s the perfect way to go out. Fighters either retire too early or retire too late. When have we ever heard of a perfect retirement? I would rather retire early.”

Michael Chiesa set to stay with UFC even after retirement

If this does turn out to be Chiesa’s last fight, it probably won’t be the last we see of him around the UFC.

He’s already been involved in broadcasting work for the promotion and is expected to stay active in that role even after hanging up his gloves.