Dec 15, 2012; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Pat Barry celebrates his win over Shane Del Rosario during their heavyweight bout in the Ultimate Fighter Finale at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.Barry won by KO. Mandatory Credit: Josh Holmberg-USA TODAY Sports

Earlier today we reported that UFC Heavyweight, Pat Barry, would be retiring from MMA. After compiling a 5-7 record inside the UFC, Barry has decided to step away from the sport to pursue other endeavors. With the recent rise in popularity of GLORY kickboxing, could we see Pat Barry in a tournament in the near future?

Suckerpunch entertainment, Pat Barry’s management company, posted about Barry’s retirement on their facebook today. This is what they had to say:

After long discussions with our client Pat Barry over the recent weeks, he has come to the decision that he will be taking an indefinite leave from competing in MMA. The UFC and Zuffa have been very gracious in releasing him from his contract and Pat is very grateful for everything they have done for him and his career.

Clearly that statement makes it seem like Barry is retiring from MMA, not from combat sports in general. Pat Barry was also quoted by Suckerpunch, and gives us insight as to why he wanted to leave MMA:

Over the past few fights I’ve just had this sinking feeling in my stomach whenever I have stepped into the Octagon and I realize, I DONT WANT TO WRESTLE. Not saying I will never do MMA again, but right now I just want to hit people. MMA and the UFC have been great to me and I will always support the company and the sport. I want to thank all my fans, sponsors and haters for being with me on this journey and I look forward to what future holds.” – HD!

Pat’s statement paints the picture very clearly; Pat Barry wants to become a full time kickboxer, and now is better a time than ever before. Brian Butler, Pat’s manager, spoke about other options in combat sports for Pat as well:

Pat and I have talked about this for a while now and with recent changes in the landscape of combat sports, he wants to explore some options and try to get back to his roots. He’s going to take a little time to clear his head and then we will explore our options. We will keep you posted on things as they develop.

There is no timetable as of now when we could see Barry compete again. There has also been no word from either party stating that GLORY is the goal, but it certainly seems that way.