Despite a positive professional record and still being just 34 years of age, UFC lightweight Alexander Munoz has announced that he’s set to leave the active roster after a tough few years dealing with injuries behind the scenes.
The Texas native, who once fought in Dana White’s Contender Series, has even requested that the UFC matchmakers make the most of the spot he leaves behind and ‘give the next guy his chance’ in one of the most poignant retirement statements in recent memory.
34-year-old fighter walks away from UFC after string of severe injuries
34-year-old lightweight Alexander Munoz has confirmed that he’s leaving the sport of MMA and his place on the active UFC roster, as he wants to start a family with his partner; happy and more importantly, healthy.
“Fighting in the UFC has been an absolute honor and a dream come true,” Munoz wrote on his Instagram page, noting how he was “immensely grateful” for the support of the UFC brass after suffering some of the worst injuries a fighter can possibly sustain.
“In the past six years, I’ve endured multiple injuries that have tested me both mentally and physically. These included but certainly weren’t limited to, two full knee reconstruction on my left knee, a torn PCL in my right knee.
“More recently, two weeks before my last fight I suffered a tear in my right elbow, a separated ac joint in my right shoulder, and I tore 75% of my lat all at once during a sparring accident as I prepared for my last fight.”
Despite such severe injuries, Munoz would fight through the pain in his most recent fight, earning the unanimous decision win over Carl Deaton III back in July 2023.
Unfortunately, not long after getting himself back in the UFC win column, injuries would set the Team Alpha Male fighter back once again.
“Despite this, I didn’t pull out and fought through these challenges, throwing punches only with my left hand, I was grateful to secure a win. Shortly after recovering from those injuries, I suffered two additional tears in my knee while sparring.
“I’ve been reluctant to share the extent of these injuries out of concern that they could be targeted in future fights, but after much reflection, I have decided that it’s time to focus on preserving what’s left of my body for the future.”
As stated by the popular lightweight, who ends his career with a solid 7-2 record, the decision to walk away from the UFC and the sport is because he and his partner are planning to start a family.
“My wife and I are planning to start a family this year, and I want to ensure that I can be fully present and healthy for them. It’s with a heavy heart, that I have decided to step away from the UFC roster.”
Demonstrating a sense of self rarely seen in the MMA world, Munoz would request that Sean Shelby and Dana White make sure that the now-vacant spot on the roster goes to someone representing the next generation of talent.
“I want to give the next guy his chance while I still have the ability to enjoy a healthy future with my family. Thank you again for everything – for your support, your belief in me, and for giving me every opportunity to succeed… All the best, Alexander Munoz.”
UFC fighters send messages of support to Alex Munoz for his announcement
Such an emotional but respectful retirement message has been met with a wave of support from Munoz’s fans and fellow UFC fighters.
Ryan ‘Man of Steel’ Loder wrote under the Instagram post that he was “Super grateful to share the mat with you and to have you in my corner.”
The legendary Sarah McMann would reply to the announcement by stating that she was “glad you made the best choice for your future!! You’re an amazing athlete and human!!”
Middleweight Kevem Felipe acknowledged that “The family is everything we need my brother,” and that “you will always be one of the best fighters we ever see- Love you buddy.”
Finally, Canada’s own Mike Malott wrote that he was “Grateful to have shared some of this incredible chapter with you. Your next chapter will be amazing as well. Proud of you brotha!”
Bloody Elbow wishes Alexander Munoz the best in this next chapter of his life.