Cody McKenzie has long been known as one of the more colorful characters in MMA, known for his ability to finish opponents with a guillotine choke that he dubbed the “McKenzie-tine.”
McKenzie hasn't been seen on the big stage for some time now in the MMA world, but that is due to the fact that he's taken his talents to a different venture -- selling marijuana.
McKenzie, who now lives in Seattle, works at a marijuana production plant known as Hang Roots. McKenzie spoke of the career change in an interview with MMA Junkie Radio.
“We’ve got the best,” McKenzie said. “Our slogan is, ‘Top shelf.' I’ve always been a laborer. I’m not too smart. But now that the marijuana industry is popping off, it’s a nice little way to make a chunk of change.”
For those who are expecting to see McKenzie in the cage again, you will if the money is just right.
“I’m a good fighter, but I’m not world champ,” he said. “Unless you’re the world champ in this sport, it’s pretty hard to make a payday.”
McKenzie last competed at the upstart Venator FC promotion out of Italy, in another fight that ended via guillotine choke.
“If I feel it’s worth my time, I’ll do it, like a trip to Italy,” McKenzie said. “But I work. Last year, I was probably on the fishing boats seven months out of the year.”
McKenzie will be fighting fellow UFC veteran Joe Riggs at “Fight Night II,” which is taking place on Friday, October 28 in Canada.
