UFC flyweight legend Demetrious Johnson announces mixed martial arts retirement, aged 38 - ‘I am done’
Published 07/09/2024 at 12:51 GMT+1
One of the UFC's most successful fighters has called time on his professional career. Demetrious Johnson - who has been competing in the ONE promotion since October 2018 - ended any speculation surrounding his future after not fighting in mixed martial arts since May 2023. Johnson is an icon of the UFC flyweight division, holding the record for the most defences of the world title at that weight.
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Legendary former UFC champion Demetrious Johnson has announced his retirement from mixed martial arts at the age of 38.
Johnson previously ruled the roost in the UFC flyweight division, and successfully defended the world title a record 11 times between 2012 and 2018.
He was dethroned as champion following a defeat by split decision against Henry Cejudo at UFC 227 in Los Angeles on August 4, 2018.
He made the transition from UFC to ONE two months later, in October 2018, swapping places with Ben Askren in a deal between the two martial arts powerhouses.
Johnson’s first MMA fight with ONE came against Tatsumitsu Wada on August 3, 2019 - a bout he won via unanimous decision. He would go onto compete in five bouts for the ONE promotion.
The 38-year-old revealed the news surrounding his retirement at ONE 168 in Denver, Colorado on Friday night.
He said: “Like I said last time when I came to Denver, Colo., I told you guys it was potentially my last fight, and I was not lying," in quotes published by mmafighting.com.
"I am done. I am done competing in mixed martial arts, and I want to thank you guys so much for giving me the opportunity."
The fighter - known as 'Mighty Mouse' - had an overall record of 27 wins, three defeats and one draw in the UFC.
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Johnson will now be further recognised for his immense contribution to the sport, and was named as the first inductee into the ONE Championship Hall of Fame.
However, the American's fighting career may not be over just yet, with suggestions that he could still compete in jiu-jitsu for ONE.
He has also continued to take part in grappling competitions since his last ONE MMA fight against Moraes.
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