Welterweight veteran Rory MacDonald has decided to call an end to his MMA career.
MacDonald, 33, announced his retirement Sunday after suffering a loss at a PFL card this weekend.
“My time has come to put the gloves down for good,” said MacDonald in an Instagram post. “I’m so thankful for this sport and every person I’ve been able to meet along the way.”
MacDonald suffered a loss in the main event of a card on Saturday night, getting finished in the first round by Dilano Taylor.
The fight continued MacDonald’s struggles since joining the PFL roster, as it was his fourth loss through six appearances in the promotion.
MacDonald’s career concludes with 23 wins through 34 pro appearances. He first joined the UFC roster in 2010, then boasting an undefeated record of nine wins.
While never becoming champion, MacDonald was highly successful early in his UFC career. He became part of MMA history late in his UFC run, putting on a five-round fight against Robbie Lawler that many consider being one of the greatest MMA bouts of all time.
MacDonald moved to Bellator in 2017. He earned their welterweight belt during his time, dethroning Douglas Lima.
“What an adventure this career has been, 17 years of professional fighting,” said MacDonald. “It all came and went so fast! So many painful trainings that are etched into my being, traveling to all parts of the planet and meeting so many people.”
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