Russian brawler and MMA legend. Notable fighters who retired in 2021
Conor McGregor’s friend was tired of defeat, and the strange American left immediately after his first victory in the UFC.
The world of mixed martial arts does not stand still. In 2021, many famous and titled fighters held their last fights.
We recall the most striking characters, whose history in MMA came to an end in the past year.
Nick Lenz (30-12). Last UFC fight – January 23, 2021
37-year-old American fighter Nick Lenz retired from his professional career after a fight at UFC 257, in the main battle of which was the confrontation between Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor. Lenz fought Russian undefeated fighter Movsar Yevloyev (15-0). The fight lasted all three rounds, and Evloyev won a victory over Lenz thanks to a split decision of the judges.
The main reason for Nick’s departure was injury, as a result of which he lost 40% of his vision. Nick went up against Movsar to understand that he was capable at the highest level, but after the fight he realized that he could no longer successfully compete in the UFC.
Stefan Struve (29-13). Last UFC fight – October 24, 2020
Dutchman Stefan Struve announced the end of his professional career on February 15 last year. Health problems began to interfere with the 33-year-old athlete. He suffers from severe dizziness as well as hearing loss and tinnitus.
Struve had 24 fights in the UFC. In his last fight, he lost by knockout in the first round to Australian Tay Tuivas.
Jimmy Flick (16-5). Last UFC fight is December 19, 2020
31-year-old American fighter Jimmy Flick announced his retirement at the strangest moment. He had his debut fight in the UFS, in which he won a reception over Cody Darden.
It seemed that everything was going as well as possible to continue his career in the organization, but Jimmy had his own plans. He stated that the organization does not care about him. Flick has been in professional sports for over 10 years.
Alan Juban (17-7). Last UFC fight is Nov 21, 2020
39-year-old American fighter Alan Juban has long served as a guest analyst for the UFC on various programs. He had 13 fights in the promotion, but decided to focus on his television career. In the UFC, he has received the Best Fight of the Night Bonus four times and has won landmark victories over Mike Perry, Belal Muhammad and Ben Saunders. In his last fight at UFC 255, he defeated Jared Gooden.
Artem Lobov (13-15). Last UFC fight – October 27, 2018
The 35-year-old fighter is arguably one of the most controversial figures in the MMA world. Lobov was a teammate and sparring partner of former UFC champion Conor McGregor and turned Russian fans against himself when he sided with the Irishman in a conflict with Khabib Nurmagomedov.
After several years of wandering through various promotions, the athlete signed a contract with the UFC. Lobov had seven fights in the organization. Fans love him, but this is not enough for a bright career. In his last fight, he lost to Michael Johnson by decision. Lobov decided to continue his path no longer as an MMA fighter. But something suggests that we will still hear about this colorful guy.
Ronaldo Sousa (26-10). Last UFC fight – May 15, 2021
Legendary MMA fighter Ronaldo Sousa, better known as the Alligator, has fought the best for over 20 years. He won high-profile victories over Chris Weidman, Derek Brunson, Vitor Belfort and Gerard Musasi. Alligator was also the Strikeforce champion.
In four fights in the UFC, he announced annulment, after the latter announced his retirement. In his last fight at UFC 262, he lost to Andre Lower Elbow Lever in the first round, but his style will forever remain in the memory of true MMA fans.