Luke Rockhold Retires from MMA Following Tearful Post-Fight Interview

Luke Rockhold (16-6 MMA, 6-5 UFC) has not formally come out saying he is retiring, but he hinted at it to the UFC.

MMA Junkie reportedly confirmed with one of Rockhold’s representatives that the UFC middleweight champion will be retiring. A notification came from the UFC Roster Watch Twitter page tracks who is added and removed from the UFC Roster.

His past fight was against Paulo Costa (14-2 MMA, 6-2 UFC) at UFC 278.

“I’ve been through so much the last few years,” Rockhold said as tears flowed.

“I f–king … thank you, fighting. Thank you, UFC. Thank you, Joe (Rogan). I f–king can’t do this sh-t anymore. I gave it my all. I just didn’t … I’m f–king old.”

“I gave it my all … I’m f—ing old.”

Luke Rockhold was full of emotions as he announced his retirement after #UFC278 pic.twitter.com/QsJvGcH2sB

— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) August 21, 2022

Traditionally in MMA, the fighter will place their gloves in the center of the cage, but for Rockhold that was not the case.

His interview with Rogan did not confirm the retirement.

Rockhold’s retirement comes after his first fight in three years. Rockhold is regarded as one of the successful veterans of the promotion, holding wins over former champions Michael Bisping, Lyoto Machida and Chris Weidman.

Daniel Cormier left his commentary position to embrace Luke Rockhold as he left the cage after his #UFC278 loss ❤️ pic.twitter.com/kU3dJZgrAi

— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) August 21, 2022