Self-declared free agent Georges St-Pierre currently 'just hanging out' in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS – Maybe he just wanted to play some blackjack?

Two days after declaring himself a free agent, former UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre is in Las Vegas, home base for the sport’s largest promotion.

St-Pierre (25-2 MMA, 19-2 UFC) was spotted at Aria Resort & Casino, but the 35-year-old played coy when asked why he was in town.

“Just hanging out,” St-Pierre told MMAjunkie with a laugh.

UFC President Dana White declined to comment when contacted by MMAjunkie.

St-Pierre hasn’t competed since beating Johny Hendricks at UFC 167 in November 2013. According to French-Canadia superstar, discussions about a UFC comeback started in February when he told the promotion he was eager to end his lengthy hiatus and return to competition.

“Rush,” who left the promotion on a run of 12 consecutive wins – a run that includes nine defenses the 170-pound belt – felt he was making progress towards stepping back in the UFC, but the promotion was suddenly sold to new owners, and negotiations soured.

That prompted St-Pierre to declare himself a free agent, a stance that UFC officials opposed.

“Georges St-Pierre remains under an existing agreement with Zuffa, LLC as his MMA promoter,” a statement from the promotion read. “Zuffa intends to honor its agreement with St-Pierre and reserves its rights under the law to have St-Pierre do the same.”

For more on the UFC’s upcoming schedule, check out the UFC Rumors section of the site.