Chris Weidman Announces Retirement from the UFC After Legendary Career

Chris Weidman, former UFC middleweight champion and one of the most iconic figures in MMA history, has officially announced his retirement from the UFC. The announcement came on the UFC 311 weigh-ins show in Los Angeles, where Weidman revealed that only a select few in his inner circle were aware of his decision beforehand.

Weidman (16-8 MMA, 12-8 UFC), who turned 40 this year, decided to step away from the sport after a challenging run in recent years. His last fight at UFC 310 ended in a knockout loss to Eryk Anders during a 195-pound catchweight bout. Reflecting on his journey, Weidman shared:

“Since I decided to get into this sport in 2009, the goal was to be a UFC fighter. Then immediately, the goal was to be a UFC champion. Fourteen years later, I’m here to tell you that I’m hanging up the gloves in the UFC. I no longer will be fighting in the organization that changed my life in so many ways.”

Weidman’s career began with an impressive 9-0 record, including a 5-0 start in the UFC, culminating in one of the most shocking upsets in MMA history. At UFC 162 in 2013, Weidman dethroned the legendary Anderson Silva with a stunning second-round knockout, shattering Silva’s seemingly invincible reign. In their rematch, Weidman retained his title after Silva suffered a gruesome leg injury, further cementing Weidman’s legacy.

Weidman went on to defend the middleweight title twice more against Lyoto Machida and Vitor Belfort before losing it to Luke Rockhold in 2015. However, the latter half of his career was marked by adversity, with a 3-8 record and multiple knockout losses, including a haunting injury against Uriah Hall that mirrored Silva’s leg break.

Despite these challenges, Weidman’s contributions to the sport remain unparalleled. Reflecting on his career, he said:

“It’s been a ride, from being an undefeated world champion and being able to beat one of the greatest of all time in Anderson Silva, and then being able to defend my belt three times against some of the greatest legends of the sport. I’m just very grateful.”

While stepping away from the UFC, Weidman hinted at future possibilities outside the octagon, suggesting he’s open to opportunities in other combat sports arenas.

“I’m opening up a new chapter in my life, and I’m excited about the future,” he said. “I’m leaving the door open for big opportunities out there. But we’re moving on to see my life develop in different ways.”

Chris Weidman leaves behind a legacy as one of the most influential and resilient fighters in MMA history, forever remembered for his historic victories and impact on the sport.