Jim Miller is set to return from a 13-month layoff when he faces Jared Gordon on the prelims of UFC 328 at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., on Saturday.
Miller, 42, fought only once in 2025, dropping a decision to Chase Hooper at UFC 314 in Miami. The lightweight veteran, who owns a 38-19 MMA record and a 27-18 UFC mark, underwent surgery for a nagging injury during his time away.
"This is the longest layoff in my career," Miller said. He added, "… I'm just happy to be back, and it's a great card to be on. … It took a few months for me to get over that and to be able to get back into training. And then, dealt with some health issues in the family and fortunately everything's great now. My son lived up to the Miller name."
Miller’s 14-year-old son was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma in his eye socket and sinuses and underwent surgery and chemotherapy. "It put everything in perspective," Miller said. "You complain about injuries or this or that. Spending time in the pediatric oncology department – it puts you in your place. These kids are tough as hell. My son is amazing. He made it look easy and did so in the most amazing way and tried to uplift people every time he was there. I couldn't be prouder of him."
Miller, who previously had not fought only once in a calendar year since his 2005 pro debut, still has his long-stated target in mind. "(Getting to) 50 is still the goal, but I'm realistic, as well," he said. "This will be 47. … I still feel like I can get to 50, and I'm still going to give it a go. If it happens, that'll be amazing. If it doesn't because an injury pops up or something like that, then hey, man – it's been a heck of a ride."
