Beneil Dariush taking time off following UFC Perth setback against Quillan Salkilld

After suffering another first-round loss at UFC Perth, Beneil Dariush is taking a break.

Dariush was hoping to rebound after ending 2025 on a 16-second knockout loss to Benoit Saint Denis. “Benny” shared the Octagon with Quillan Salkilld inside the RAC Arena in Perth this past Saturday. Salkilld earned a first-round TKO finish to the delight of the Australian fans.

As for Dariush, he has now gone 1-4 in his last five outings. All four losses have been by way of knockout or TKO in the first round. Dariush has taken to his Instagram account to let his supporters know that he is in good health following his latest setback. He’s also planning to step away for a little bit.

“I’m good friends,” Dariush wrote. “I have no injuries and I appreciate everyone checking on me. I’ll be taking some time off and heading over to Sydney tomorrow for the week. God bless.”

Dariush was once on the cusp of a UFC lightweight title shot. He secured an eight-fight winning streak within years, defeating the likes of Mateusz Gamrot and Tony Ferguson. Dariush ultimately suffered a first-round TKO loss to Charles Oliveira, which started the slide.

Reigning UFC Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski recently put blame on himself for Dariush missing out on a lightweight title shot. During Dariush’s hot streak, Volkanovski moved up in weight to challenge Islam Makhachev twice. “The Great” feels if he had never chased the 155-pound gold, then Dariush may have had a title fight.

What’s next for Dariush remains to be seen. He will be turning 37 on Wednesday and some are wondering if it’s time to close the chapter on pro MMA competition.

Do you think it’s time for Beneil Dariush to consider retirement? Do you think he could extend his UFC run by moving up in weight? Share your opinion in the comments below.