Jack Shore has sent shockwaves through the world of MMA by announcing his retirement.
The 29-year-old featherweight walks away from the sport after a Cage Warriors title win and nine fights in the UFC.
Jack Shore debuted for Dana White‘s promotion in July 2020. The Welsh fighter won four consecutive bantamweight bouts before suffering his first career defeat at the hands of Ricky Simon in July 2022.
A move up in weight led to a win over Makwan Amirkhani – but since then Shore has suffered two successive losses, including a recent defeat to Youssef Zalal, that have prompted him to announce his premature retirement from fighting.
Jack Shore issues retirement statement
On Wednesday, Jack Shore issued a lengthy social media statement about his combat career.
‘Tank’ revealed that his UFC contract has expired. There was an option to re-sign with MMA’s premier league, but he has decided to quit MMA and focus on other things moving forward.
“Hello guys, been quiet for a while enjoying time with my friends and family,” Shore wrote on Instagram.
“As what may come as a surprise to a few I’ve decided to hang up the gloves on my professional fighting career. After fighting out my contract and taking some time to think about what’s next it’s clear to me that my time with professional fighting is done.
“Although I had the chance to re-sign with UFC I’ve decided my times done. I want to thank the UFC for letting me live out my childhood dream of fighting for the world’s biggest organization and against some of the best in the world, I’ve enjoyed every minute!
“From what started as a kid with a dream led me to amateur titles, world titles, and living out my dream of fighting in the UFC. I can truly say for every single fight I gave the training and the fights my all, never said no, never asked questions just kept my head down, stayed true to myself, and achieved more than I ever thought possible.
“For the entirety of my 20s fighting and training was my life and sole focus, however, the last few weeks/months have showed this is no longer the case. And I always promised myself when I was mentality checked out I would retire from the sport rather than the sport retire me. Injuries have caught up with me after a lifetime in the sport. I’m leaving with my mental in check, good health, financially stable, and am fully ready to move onto the future.”
MMA community pays tribute to Jack Shore
Shore’s retirement post was met with a flurry of well-wishes from people involved in MMA.
Cory McKenna commented: “You’ve been an inspiration to many and done so many great things, happy retirement Jack!”
Jake Hadley said: “Happy retirement.”
Referee Marc Goddard wrote: “A great representative of yourself, Wales, your Dad, your family, your gym, your team – and all else you placed yourself in. Respect young man.”
Brendan Loughnane added: “Legend.”
Despite being so young, it’s clear that Shore has left his mark on MMA.
Everyone at Bloody Elbow wishes him a very happy retirement.