Rory MacDonald Retires from MMA

Former Welterweight Contender Announces Decision After TKO Loss

Rory MacDonald, the former Bellator welterweight champion and UFC title challenger, has announced his retirement from mixed martial arts less than 24 hours after suffering a TKO loss to Dilano Taylor in a 2022 PFL event.

MacDonald, 33, made the announcement on his social media accounts, thanking his coaches, teammates, and fans for their support throughout his career.

"It's been an incredible journey, but I've decided to hang up the gloves," MacDonald wrote. "I've given this sport everything I have, and I'm proud of what I've accomplished. But it's time for me to move on to the next chapter in my life."

MacDonald began his MMA career in 2005 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming one of the most feared welterweights in the world. He won the Bellator welterweight title in 2010 and defended it twice before signing with the UFC in 2014.

In the UFC, MacDonald challenged for the welterweight title twice, but came up short both times against Robbie Lawler and Stephen Thompson. He left the UFC in 2016 and signed with Bellator, where he won the welterweight title again in 2018.

MacDonald's retirement marks the end of an era in MMA. He was one of the most respected and feared fighters in the welterweight division and his legacy will undoubtedly live on.