The world of MMA is a harsh and unforgiving one, where each competitor puts their body on the line for the entertainment of fans. For many fighters, the pressure and mental/physical toll on their bodies prove too much and they eventually retire. It seems Claudio Silva is now one of them, as he has announced his MMA retirement.
Claudio Silva has decided to retire from MMA nearly five months after his UFC release, which did come as a shock for many fans. The welterweight veteran announced in a social media post directed to his “family, fans, friends and haters.”
“Since I start compete in MMA and UFC I’ve had nothing but positive memories and special moments that I will never forget. Thank you everyone that helped me achieve my goals as a man, athlete and sportsman. I wish nothing but the best to all my coaches, fans, friends, family members.”
Victories against notable opponents such as future 170-pound champion Leon Edwards, Nordine Taleb, and Danny Roberts marked Silva’s tenure in the UFC between 2014 and 2022. However, after suffering defeats to James Krause, Court McGee, and Nicolas Dalby, the organization ultimately decided to terminate their partnership with Silva.
The Brazilian fighter, Silva, retires with a professional record of 14-4. Throughout his career in the octagon, he has faced numerous injuries, being forced out of the cage for almost four years after his split decision win over “Rocky” in Brazil. Since then, Edwards has only suffered a single defeat, avenging a previous loss to Kamaru Usman by capturing the UFC title in August 2022.
His most notable win will forever be against Leon Edwards at UFC Fight Night 56 in November 2014. We will have to wait and see what the future holds for the former UFC star.
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