Fighters Who Came Out of Retirement to Dominate the Octagon Again
As it is the case with most combat sports, retirement is the last stage in the career of any fighter in mixed martial arts (MMA). The physical contact involved in the game, the injuries that follow, and the stress that athletes undergo make retirement a good thing after years of competition. Nevertheless, there are certain fighters who cannot resist the lure of the Octagon. Such retirements are usually permanent, but there are cases where certain athletes come from retirement and struggle to regain their position in the sport or even top it. It is not easy to come back to Octagon after some time away from the cage. Those who have come back from the shelf have to get past not just the effects of aging and ring inactivity but also a new generation of talent that keeps on appearing. Below is a list of some of the most famous UFC fighters that came out of retirement to rule the cage once more. Georges St-Pierre (GSP) It will be rather unfair not to include the names of the legends of this sport, such as Georges St-Pierre. Considered by many as the best fighter ever, GSP was the king of UFC’s welterweight for several years before retiring in 2013. This was the case when he was reigning as the welterweight champion and was successfully defending the title for the record ninth time. Due to personal problems and the need to leave the post of the champion, St-Pierre retired from MMA. GSP had not competed in the Octagon for four years, and most people have thought that he retired from the fight. However, in 2017, St-Pierre emerged from retirement to stun the MMA fraternity once again. Not only was he returning to the cage, but he was doing so at a higher weight to take on Michael Bisping for the UFC middleweight title. The increase in weight class brought more excitement to his return to the cage since it was unknown how GSP would fare after coming back from a layoff and against a larger opponent. In UFC 217, St-Pierre silenced all those doubts that people had. He knocked out Bisping in the third round by submission to become one of the most successful fighters in UFC history, as he has been a two-time champion in two different weight categories. It is quite a success that GSP returned after years, and even the weight gain did not affect his performance. He relinquished the middleweight title shortly after that because of health concerns, but his victory in the comeback fight cemented his place among the greatest fighters of all time. Randy Couture It is worth noting that Randy Couture has proved to be one of the best in UFC when it comes to making a comeback. Called “The Natural,” Couture succeeded age and expectations during his career, retiring and coming back two times to win the UFC title. Couture retired in 2006 after a third fight against Chuck Liddell for the UFC light heavyweight title. At the time, Couture was 43 years old, and many people thought that he was still in his prime. But, in 2007, Couture was back in the Octagon, this time having shifted back to heavyweight to fight Tim Sylvia for the UFC heavyweight title. Sylvia was much larger than Couture, and this man had been retired, but he was the only winner in the ring for all the rounds and took the heavyweight title back at 44. Couture fought in the UFC until his last time retiring in 2011 at the age of 47; this was due to records of being the oldest fighter to be the champion in the UFC and the only fighter to be holding titles in two different categories, that is, light heavyweight and heavyweight, for more than one time. His retirement and return several times to the ring make him a legend of MMA as one of the fighters with a lot of achievements. Dominick Cruz This paper will focus on Dominick Cruz and how the fighter has had his fair share of challenges in his career. Cruz, who was known for his unusual style of footwork and movement, was one of the most formidable bantamweight fighters in the MMA. However, injuries hampered his career, and after dethroning the champion bantamweight in 2010, Cruz had to relinquish the title in 2014 due to knee operations and a torn groin muscle. Most people began to question if he would be able to climb back to the pinnacle of the sport as he had been inactive for many years. In 2016, Cruz returned to the octagon after a string of injuries that sidelined him for four years to challenge then bantamweight champion T. J. Dillashaw at UFC Fight Night 81. Cruz was able to demonstrate the same slippery footwork and great technical skills that were present in him before he got injured for a long time. He won a split decision victory over Dillashaw in a very competitive fight to win the title back in the UFC bantamweight division, one of the greatest comeback stories in MMA history. Although Cruz was to lose the title later that year to Cody Garbrandt, this win was one of the most memorable comebacks in UFC history and proved that Cruz was one of the greatest bantamweight fighters of all time. B. J. Penn J. Penn, or “The Prodigy,” is one of the best and most diverse mixed martial arts fighters to have fought in the UFC. Jens Penn is another former two-division champion who weighs light weight and welterweight. Penn is one of the best fighters in the sport due to his natural ability and heart. Penn first retired in 2011 after a series of losses, but he never lost the passion to compete. His first attempt at retirement was short-lived, as he made several more comebacks to the UFC with not as much success as in his earlier years. But one of the most memorable came
The impact of Matt Schnell’s retirement on the flyweight division.
Matt Schnell, who is also known by his nickname ‘Danger’ has been among the most exciting fighters in the UFC’s flyweight division for the past few years. His fights have always been tactically intense with high tempo and he always engages the fans especially when he gave a good account of himself in some of the most entertaining fights. Schnell’s decision to retire is a big blow to the flyweight division, a division that has been going through some radical changes in the recent past. In this article, we will discuss how his retirement will impact the flyweight division, the possibilities that other fighters will have, the history of the division and the future of the flyweight class after Schnell. 1. Matt Schnell: The Journey Matt Schnell joined the UFC flyweight division in 2016 when he fought on the reality show “The Ultimate Fighter” season 24 in which champions from different organizations competed for a title shot at the then flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson. Schnell may not have taken home the victory in the tournament but he did get a UFC contract out of it. It didn’t take long for Schnell to gain a reputation for being an entertaining fighter, who would always stand and trade, and never back down from a fight, while also having great submission skills. One of the best performances was at UFC 269 in December 2021 where he fought with Brandon Royval and put up a great display of toughness and pressure. Despite his defeat, he was known to have given his best and thus enhanced his reputation of being a great performer. Another memorable bout was his contest with Su Mudaerji at UFC Long Island in July 2022; a thrilling contest that many people believe was one of the best flyweight bouts in the history of the organization. Schnell’s ability to get out of the near finishes and then come back to get the submission win showed that Schnell is a true warrior in the Octagon and fans and other fighters praised him for it. Schnell has wins over top-ranked opponents in his career such as Tyson Nam and Louis Smolka. Schnell never got to win the UFC gold but he was able to bring excitement and tough fights to the division. 2. The Flyweight Division: An Overview In order to explain the effects of Matt Schnell’s retirement, it is necessary to go through the history and development of the flyweight division. The flyweight division was added into the UFC in 2012 and the first champion of the division was Johnson Demetrious Mighty Mouse through a tournament that involved the best fighters globally. Johnson would go on to become one of the most successful champions in the history of UFC, holding the title from 2012 to 2018, and making 11 successful title defenses, another UFC record. Nevertheless, Johnson was supreme in the division, yet the flyweight was not able to achieve the same level of popularity as the other weight classes in the UFC. The first problem was the notion that flyweights could not deliver KO’s, as most fans preferred other weight classes where fighters could knock opponents out with a single strike. Johnson’s skills were usually overlooked and there was a time when the UFC was thinking of closing the division. Changes started happening when Henry Cejudo defeated Demetrious Johnson by a split decision at UFC 227 in 2018. Cejudo’s win was the start of a new chapter for the flyweight division as he would later on become the bantamweight champion which only elevated the status of both divisions. Cejudo’s rivalry with TJ Dillashaw, who moved to the flyweight division to challenge him for the title and his subsequent retirement after capturing the bantamweight title also provided the much needed excitement to the flyweight division. The division was left without Cejudo and the division saw new champions like Deiveson Figueiredo and Brandon Moreno who had an amazing trilogy between 2020 and 2022. The Figueiredo-Moreno rivalry became the best rivalry that the fans could ask for and played a big role in building the flyweight division as one of the best divisions in the UFC. 3. Where Matt Schnell Stands in the Flyweight Division? Thus, in the world of flyweight division that is becoming more and more competitive and diverse, Matt Schnell established himself as a dangerous fighter. Schnell was never a fighter who could be described as a puncher or a knock-out artist but a fighter who had a lot of heart and a great technique. His grappling was also very effective, especially the guillotine choke which he used to win many fights in the UFC. In addition, Schnell was able to deliver exciting fights for the fans which made him a contender for the title even when he was not the champion. Schnell was a member of the flyweight division which also featured other talented fighters such as Alexandre Pantoja, Askar Askarov and Brandon Royval. This group of fighters played a big role in taking the division out of the shadow of Demetrious Johnson and bring new life into the division. It was crucial for Schnell to be there as he is the kind of fighter that can both provide excitement to the audience and challenge anyone in the division. Schnell never got to be the flyweight champion of the world but his fights were always among the most exciting on any given card. His exciting victory over Su Mudaerji in which he was knocked down several times but managed to submit his opponent with a triangle choke is a clear testament as to why Schnell was such a fan favourite in the division. The fighters such as Schnell are important in any weight division because they help fans stay interested in the division even when there are no title shots to be had. 4. Schnell’s Retirement and Its Effect on Flyweight Division Matt Schnell’s retirement is a good chance for other fighters in the flyweight division to advance in the
Demetrious Johnson retires: How he shaped the sport of MMA
Thus, the statement about Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson’s retirement can be considered as the end of an era in mixed martial arts (MMA). The fighter with the most amazing skills, ideas and physical abilities, Johnson, is leaving behind more than the titles and awards. His influence on MMA has been tremendous and has shifted the landscape of the sport and the way it is fought especially in the lighter divisions. As Johnson retires, one must remember how he dominated the fights and explored the limits of a fighter in MMA. Early Beginnings: From the Underdog to the Pioneer of the Flyweight Division It should be noted that Demetrious Johnson’s career in the cage started as any other regular fighter’s career. At 5’3” tall and fighting in the lighter weight classes the first few years of his career he had all the markings of an unlikely future mixed martial arts superstar. Johnson was born in Kentucky, and his family moved to Washington State when he was still young. He was raised by a single mother and lived in poverty most of his childhood. All these experiences made Johnson a very strong competitor who is very hard working. Johnson started his journey with MMA and fighting in different regional promotions, however, he was discovered when he joined the WEC organization in 2010. Johnson competed at the bantamweight division of 135 pounds and was usually a small man but his speed, technique and general smartness were evident early on. His work ethic, along with his capacity to switch between striking and grappling was a quality that set him apart from most of his counterparts. The UFC-WEC merger that took place in 2010 offered Johnson the opportunity he had been waiting for to fight in the biggest promotion. Johnson had a brief stint at the bantamweight category which included a title shot against Dominick Cruz and Johnson moved to the newly created flyweight division (125 pounds) in 2012. For a fighter like Johnson, the UFC developed the flyweight division and he grabbed this chance with both hands. This is the genesis of a flyweight dynasty. UFC added its flyweight division in 2012 and conducted a four-man tournament to determine the first champion in the division. In the tournament Demetrious Johnson fought with Ian McCall and Joseph Benavidez where he defeated Benavidez by split decision and was crowned as the first UFC Flyweight Champion. This moment was not only historic for Johnson but also to MMA as a sport since it had not reached this point before. It was the start of a flyweight division that would be forever associated with Johnson’s name. Johnson’s reign as flyweight champion was history in the making. Johnson was able to defend his title from 2012 to 2018, 11 times in a row, thus breaking the previous record for the most title defenses in UFC held by Anderson Silva. In this period Johnson dominated his opponents more than any fighter in MMA no matter the weight division. He was one of the most balanced martial artists in the history of MMA because he could switch between wrestling, striking, grappling, and submissions as an organic fighting style. But what set Johnson apart from all the others was his fight smarts. He was not only strong and agile; he was a strategist who could readjust his battle strategy mid-battle, find loopholes in his opponent’s armor and take advantage of them as if it was the most natural thing to do. His triumphs were always a clinic of how to outwit and outplay the opponents. Some of the fights include his second fight with John Dodson where he outworked a potent knockout puncher and his win against Kyoji Horiguchi where he submitted his opponent in the dying embers of the bout showed that Johnson possessed a very diverse skill set and he could rise to the occasion. The highlight of Johnson’s career was in his fight against Ray Borg in 2017 when he delivered what is now famously known as The Mighty Wiz-bar which is a suplex into an armbar in mid-air that made Borg tap out. This was a classic highlight-reel of Johnson, his creativity, technical prowess, and capacity to invent new ways of winning inside the cage. Changing the Perception of Other Lighter Weight Classes During Johnson’s reign, the lighter weight classes in MMA especially the flyweight and the bantamweight division were not much recognized by the fans or the media. People then used to believe that the smaller fighters were not as strong and entertaining as the divisions in the heavyweight category, where knockouts and battles were more often observed. However, Johnson’s performances overturned all these assumptions. Johnson showed that there was entertainment in the lighter weight classes if not more than in the heavier divisions. His speed, agility and technical prowess were evident in every fight and how he was able to finish the fight whether through submission, KO or sheer domination for 5 rounds proved that flyweights were capable of producing entertaining fights. People started to embrace the sport and specifically the lighter weight divisions and much of that change in attitude can be attributed to Johnson. In addition to promoting the flyweight division, Johnson’s success paved the way for future generations of fighters. His training regimen, which focused on skill acquisition, efficiency and perpetually improving, served as a guideline to fighters who sought to perform in the lower weight categories. Others such as Henry Cejudo, Deiveson Figueiredo and Brandon Moreno the UFC flyweight champions after Johnson also credit him for his impact in their careers. The Move to ONE Championship: Carrying On His Work In a rather shocking development in 2018, Demetrious Johnson was traded to ONE Championship for former UFC Lightweight Champion, Eddie Alvarez. This trade was the first of its kind in the entire MMA and it marked the beginning of a new phase in Johnson’s career. People questioned if Johnson will maintain his supremacy in Asia, which is home to ONE Championship
Matt Schnell’s sudden retirement: What led to his decision after UFC Vegas 97?
The most popular flyweight of the UFC, Matt Schnell, left mixed martial arts after the defeat by Cody Durden in the fight that took place at UFC Vegas 97 on September 7, 2024. A second-round submission saw Durden defeating Schnell with an anaconda choke; Schnell seemed to have been dominating the bout in the first round. His decision to retire was preceded by laying down his gloves in the octagon which left fans and analysts with many questions to ask. This decision is not just due to his display at the event, UFC Vegas 97 but is a combination of various physical, psychological and personal issues. This article explores the various factors that made Schnell to quit the fight as they include; the recent losses, the frequent injuries, the rising competition in the flyweight division, the issue with the mental health of a fighter, and family issues. 1. The Career Characterized by the Peaks and Valleys As for Matt Schnell, his journey to MMA started in earnest when he joined UFC in 2016. As a talented fighter, Schnell possessed a strong submission game and technical skills that helped him to gain recognition by fans. But Schnell’s career was a roller coaster ride with many highs and lows with a string of victories but also failures. In total, Schnell has a professional record of 16-9, including one no-contest, and during his time in the UFC, he faced some of the top fighters in the flyweight division. His stamina to come back during the challenging moments made him gain fans’ approval and several ‘Fight of the Night’ awards such as the one against Su Mudaerji in July 2022. Still, Schnell’s career was not without a string of difficult losses, including to Matheus Nicolau, Brandon Royval, and Cody Durden. UFC Vegas 97 defeat to Durden was his fourth loss in the last five bouts, three of which were by stoppages – two KOs and one submission. These losses questioned Schnell’s resilience and readiness to perform at the elite level and that too in a division which is rather volatile at the moment – the flyweight division. One cannot even begin to imagine the amount of pressure and stress these losses took on the individuals’ mental and emotional states. This is particularly the case when a fighter loses a number of big fights, and the athlete begins to doubt their ability to challenge for the championship. These cumulative losses can be viewed as the reasons behind Schnell’s retirement as he decided that he is no longer able to perform at the level that was characteristic for him in the past. 2. Physical Fatigue and Injury Difficulties MMA is a very strenuous sport that puts a lot of pressure on the athletes and Schnell’s career also proved that. In his career, he suffered several injuries and concussions that affected his training and performance for the most part. This was compounded by the fact that nearly 9 years of professional fighting had aged him and he was constantly plagued with injuries that slowed him down. For instance, Schnell had to withdraw from a much-anticipated fight against David Dvořák in the UFC 289 event scheduled for June 23, 2023, because of an injury. This was not the first time; the constant injuries cut short his fights and training regimes making it hard for him to remain relevant in the increasingly competitive UFC flyweight division. Also, Schnell’s fighting style made him get into positions where he would take a lot of hits. Against Su Mudaerji he was knocked down several times but was still able to submit his opponent. While this victory helped to further establish him as a determined contender, it also highlighted the amount of punishment that he was willing to take. Such wars in the octagon if continue over a period of time can cause severe damage, not only to the body but also to the mind. One has to also acknowledge that Schnell lost to Matheus Nicolau and Steve Erceg by the knockout, which might have influenced the decision to retire. The chronic effects of concussions are not good for a fighter’s health and many MMA athletes have retired young to avoid the long-term effects of CTE. In Schnell’s case, the fact that his body may not be able to endure the physical demands required of a fighter in the ring might have been the main reason that led him to retire. 3. The Changing Flyweight Division The flyweight division, which was always thought to be one of the least developed divisions in UFC, has lately received a boost in terms of big fights and entertaining fighters. It is worthy to note that the champions like Brandon Moreno and Deiveson Figueiredo have brought focus to the division and their action-packed fights have enthralled the audience all across the globe. However, new talents like Alexandre Pantoja and Amir Albazi were emerging in the division which made the division as competitive as it could be. Although the revival of the flyweight division has been beneficial to the sport it also added pressure on fighters like Schnell who was active for several years and had to compete with new, young and energetic talent. New prospects for success emerged and the situation demanded constant high performances from Schnell and other similar professionals. Schnell, who also had all the potential, started to lose his place in the ranking because of these changes. A second-round TKO loss to Brandon Royval in May 2022 was preceded by two consecutive knockout losses that demoted him even lower. In a division that seemed to be shifting more and more towards dynamic strikers and the best grapplers, Schnell’s shot at the championship became less clear. Perhaps Schnell realized that the way to the UFC flyweight title was gradually becoming tougher and that his best shot at the title was gone. It can be speculated that instead of continuing to struggle and lose fights, Schnell came to the realization that retirement is the better
Seth Rollins Says ‘He Has No Intention To Stop Any Time Soon’
Seth Rollins, a known figure in professional wrestling or WWE, has recently made headlines with his statement. The statement is about his future in WWE and his retirement announcement. With his impressive track record and reputation since he made his debut in 2005 and his entrance to WWE in 2010. His achievements are nothing short of monumental, boasting two WWE Championships, one World Heavyweight Championship, two Universal Championships, two Intercontinental Championships, two United States Championships, and six Raw Tag Team Championship reigns. Rollins’ success has placed him in the conversation of being one of the all-time greats, with some fans and experts even suggesting that he could be on the Mount Rushmore of wrestling veterans. Seth Rollins’ journey in the wrestling ring has been nothing short of extraordinary. His skills in the ring and passion for the sport have given him success leading him to make him Grand Slam Champion twice. This achievement is only achieved by a single superstar in WWE i.e., The Miz. Despite the glory and the accolades, the journey has not been without its hurdles. Injuries and physical ailments have been constant companions on his road to greatness. Rollins has faced a slew of injuries, from separated shoulders and a broken jaw to a blown-out knee and a torn MCL. These injuries would have been enough to stop many athletes in their tracks, but Rollins’ determination and love for wrestling kept him going. However, the physical toll of the sport, combined with the birth of his daughter, has led Rollins to reflect on his future in wrestling. He recently opened up about his thoughts on retirement during an appearance on Mythical Kitchen. When asked about how having a child has influenced his career and whether retirement was on the horizon, Rollins was forthright about his contemplations. He admitted that the constant injuries and the desire to be an active father have made him ponder the endgame of his wrestling career. He recounted a moment during a concert where the lead singer of The Wonder Years, a friend of his, spoke about being closer to the end than the beginning, a sentiment that resonated with Rollins. Despite this, he expressed that he still has a lot more to give to the sport, signaling that retirement is not in his immediate plans. Seth Rollins’ immediate focus, however, is on defending his World Heavyweight Championship at WWE Crown Jewel 2023, where he will face Drew McIntyre. The rivalry between the two wrestlers has been intensifying over the past few weeks on Monday Night RAW, culminating in a match that has the wrestling world buzzing. McIntyre’s recent hint at a heel turn and The Judgment Day’s Rhea Ripley’s attempt to recruit both men to her faction have added layers of intrigue to the upcoming match. While Rollins has outright rejected Ripley’s offer, it remains to be seen if McIntyre will seek her assistance in the match, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the event. In his match, Rollins is expected to be on the top, and retain the title against Drew McIntyre. His confidence after beating Shinsuke Nakamura is high and his fighting spirit has been unwavering. This shows the qualities that make him a fan favourite, and respected figure in WWE. As Seth prepares for the match at Crown Jewel 2023, he stands at a crossroads in his career. In the past, he has come out from various injuries. Also, he has been with his daughter for a long, but his determination for wrestling is on the top and it remains at the highest level. In his recent statement, Seth has made it clear that he is not to stop anytime soon from the WWE. This announcement signals that he has much more to give to the WWE fans, and the fans are already happy with the statement. His journey has been one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering passion for the sport, and as he steps into the ring at Crown Jewel, he does so with the knowledge that he is continuing a legacy that has made him one of the best in the business.
Sting Confirms His Retirement Date From AEW
WWE wrestlers or other professional wrestlers have a unique charm to compete longer than the players of other sports. Sting is an example of a wrestler who has been participating in the WWE for years. After an injury during the WWE Night of Champions in 2015, many believed Sting’s wrestling days were over. But, breaking expectations, he made a stunning comeback at AEW Revolution six years later in a cinematic match that garnered widespread acclaim. It was initially assumed that the cinematic style was a way to accommodate Sting’s age and protect him from further injuries. However, proving his mettle once again, Sting chose not to confine himself to such matches. Instead, he has been regularly engaging in traditional tag matches for AEW, and remarkably, at 64, he’s shown incredible resilience and skill in the 21 matches since his return. But every good thing has an end, and Sting seems to understand this more than anyone. Recently, during an emotional moment in the ring, he reminisced about his memorable moments with fellow wrestling legends Lex Luger, Dusty Rhodes, and Ric Flair. Overwhelmed with emotions, the audience responded with heartwarming chants, thanking Sting for the memories. Acknowledging their love, Sting highlighted how the atmosphere in the arena and the undying support of fans have been pivotal in his decision to return and continue wrestling. However, much to the audience’s anticipation, Sting also revealed that he’s set to retire soon. And he’s not just hinted at it but has also given it a firm date – AEW Revolution 2024. For those who have been following Sting’s journey in AEW, his contribution has been nothing short of legendary. Joining AEW in December 2020, Sting surprised fans with his debut during AEW Dynamite: Winter is Coming. Making a grand entrance, he quickly came to the aid of Cody Rhodes, Dustin Rhodes, Arn Anderson, and Darby Allin, who were under siege by Team Taz. The next week provided more clarity on Sting’s decision to join AEW. He felt a sense of familiarity with the promotion, particularly seeing Allin in the rafters, which reminded him of his prime wrestling days. Since then, Sting has been a constant support for Allin. Their partnership is among the longest-running ones in AEW, with memorable bouts against formidable teams like FTR, House of Black, and Mogul Embassy. While Sting’s association with Allin has been celebrated, fans have always been intrigued by a potential showdown between Sting and Cody Rhodes. Cody, in an interview earlier this year, revealed an interesting tidbit. He had initially planned to face off against Sting, a personal hero of his. Speaking about his time at AEW, Cody mentioned that though he received an exceptional offer from the promotion – both creatively and financially – his ultimate goal remained elsewhere. He wanted to return to his primary ambition: winning the WWE Championship. Nevertheless, he shared that if things had gone as discussed, he would have eventually squared off against Sting in the ring. The wrestling world will undoubtedly feel the void when Sting hangs up his boots in 2024. His journey, spanning decades, is a testament to his dedication, skill, and love for the sport. While fans will miss seeing him in action, they can rest assured knowing Sting gave his all till the very end.
5 WWE Superstars Who Might Join Hollywood Industry After Retirement
It’s evident that some WWE wrestlers will likely pursue careers in Hollywood once they retire from wrestling. Hollywood seems like an ideal destination for these wrestlers once they hang up their boots. In the past, the idea of a wrestler becoming a successful actor was not common in the wrestling world. However, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson paved the way for WWE wrestlers to make the transition to Hollywood. The Rock has appeared in numerous movies, including major blockbusters, and has become one of the most prominent actors of his generation. Following his lead, Batista and John Cena have also ventured into acting and achieved success. Several WWE wrestlers have expressed their interest in Hollywood and possess the necessary skills to pursue acting careers. Many current talents have already dabbled in Hollywood with small roles in movies and TV shows. Some wrestlers have shown a keen interest in pursuing acting as a career and possess the charisma and talent required to succeed in the industry. Now, let’s take a closer look at five WWE stars who are likely to head to Hollywood once they decide to retire from wrestling: 5) Seth Rollins Seth Rollins is already making his mark in Hollywood by appearing in the upcoming Marvel movie, “Captain America,” where he will play a villain. Given his excellent character work and natural promo skills in WWE, it’s expected that Rollins will excel in his movie roles. If he succeeds, it’s likely that Rollins will transition to Hollywood in the future. 4) Becky Lynch Becky Lynch, the newly crowned NXT Women’s Champion and wife of Seth Rollins, is another WWE star with Hollywood aspirations. She has shown interest in acting and has made appearances in a couple of movies and TV shows. Although she came close to landing a role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the door to Hollywood remains open for Lynch. With her exceptional speaking skills and character work in WWE, she possesses the star power and talent needed to thrive in Hollywood. 3) Roman Reigns Roman Reigns is one of the most obvious WWE wrestlers poised for a Hollywood career once he retires from wrestling. The Tribal Chief has expressed his desire to pursue acting, and his connection with The Rock could open doors for him in the industry. Reigns has already appeared alongside The Rock in a movie, and his remarkable look and charisma make him a prime candidate for success in Hollywood. His outstanding character work in the wrestling world only enhances his chances. It seems inevitable that Reigns will eventually make the move to Hollywood. 2) Edge The Rated-R Superstar has already ventured into Hollywood by appearing on the hit show “Vikings,” and he demonstrated his acting abilities quite well. When Edge decides to retire again, he will do so on his terms and will likely fully commit to an acting career. His attention to detail, especially during the pandemic era, showcased his genuine acting abilities, making a transition to Hollywood a natural step for him. 1) The Miz The Miz initially began his career in the world of acting and has consistently worked on improving his acting skills while in WWE. He possesses abundant charisma and a natural talent for speaking, making a run in Hollywood a probable future endeavor. His successful reality show demonstrates his ability to captivate a broader audience beyond wrestling fans, a crucial factor for success in Hollywood.
5 UFC Stars Who Might Retire By The End Of The Year 2023
In the relentless arena of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), fighters often face a stark crossroads: the decision to retire or continue their quest for glory. As 2023 unfolds, we find ourselves at the precipice of change, where some of the sport’s most storied warriors contemplate the final chapter of their careers. Two icons, Shogun Rua and Glover Teixeira, recently penned their final verses in the octagon, leaving fans with bittersweet memories. Their farewells remind us that even the toughest warriors have their curtain calls. 1) Stipe Miocic Widely regarded as the greatest UFC heavyweight of all time, finds himself at a career crossroads. After suffering a devastating KO loss to Francis Ngannou in 2021, the 40-year-old took a hiatus to recuperate and reflect on his future. In January, Miocic tweeted, “I got a winner in July, hinting at a potential comeback. However, with Jon Jones scheduled to contest for the vacant heavyweight title at UFC 285 in March, questions swirl around about where the former champ fits into the equation. Could this be Stipe’s last chance to ride off into the sunset, leaving a legacy etched in gold? 2) Dominick Cruz Often touted as the ‘G.O.A.T.’ of the bantamweight division, has had a career peppered with injuries and unfortunate setbacks. His journey began with the WEC’s merger into the UFC, where he clinched the inaugural bantamweight title at WEC 53, a historic moment as it marked the only UFC title fight held outside the promotion. Cruz’s career is a testament to his resilience. After defeating Demetrious Johnson in 2011, a series of injuries kept him on the sidelines for three long years. A brief return in 2014 set the stage for another title run, but another injury dashed those hopes. In 2016, he returned in style, reclaiming the gold by defeating TJ Dillashaw and successfully defending it against old rival Urijah Faber. However, Cruz’s fortunes took a sharp downturn at UFC 207, where he was soundly defeated by Cody Garbrandt, losing his title in the process. More injuries followed, sidelining him for an additional four years. Since 2020, the former champ has stepped into the cage four times, securing victory on two occasions. Known for his impeccable movement and timing, Cruz’s unavoidable inactivity raises questions about his longevity. Could 2023 be the year he decides to hang up his gloves? 3) Jan Bachowicz Renowned for his ‘Polish Power,’ has carved out a remarkable career spanning nearly a decade in the UFC. The Polish warrior experienced the highs and lows of the fight game, culminating in his Cinderella moment at UFC 253 in 2020. Bachowicz, after years of toil, secured a shot at the vacant light-heavyweight title and triumphed over Dominick Reyes. His title defence against Israel Adesanya showcased his elite skills, making him the first fighter to hand ‘The Last Stylebender’ his first MMA loss. However, the taste of success can be fleeting in the world of MMA. In 2021, he surrendered his title to Glover Teixeira, a formidable adversary. Bachowicz’s journey back to the top faced a hiccup when his fight against Magomed Ankalaev ended in a majority draw, halting his immediate quest for redemption. At 39, the question looms large: how much longer can he maintain his status among the elite? While he has demonstrated all the requisite skills, the sands of time wait for no one. 4) Holly Holm Forever etched in MMA history for her sensational knockout of Ronda Rousey in 2015, is another fighter approaching the twilight of her career. “The Preacher’s Daughter” has tested herself against the very best in the business and left a piece of her heart in the cage. Since the iconic Rousey victory, Holm has participated in ten bouts, emerging victorious on four occasions. Her most recent contest ended in a contentious decision loss to Ketlen Viera in May of the previous year. At 41, she continues to exude motivation and determination. Still, as she explores ventures beyond the UFC and mixed martial arts, the sands in her fighting hourglass might be dwindling. The former boxing champion could potentially make a return to the ring before retiring from combat sports altogether. While her options remain open, her UFC contract features only a handful of fights. Thus, fans should cherish Holm’s remaining time in the cage. 5) Jorge Masvidal The BMF (Baddest Motherf****r) champion, has set the UFC ablaze since joining the promotion in 2013. He’s eternally celebrated for his jaw-dropping flying knee knockout of Ben Askren at UFC 239 in 2019. However, in the last couple of years, Gamebred has faced considerable challenges. He fought for the title twice, falling short on both occasions against Kamaru Usman. In addition, his arch-rival, Colby Covington, secured a victory over him at UFC 272 in March. With three demanding losses in a row, fans are beginning to question how much of a challenge Jorge can pose for the welterweight elite. In 2021, Masvidal provided insight into his future, stating, “When I go to the gym with myself and the younger generations and I can no longer hang with them, then I know it’s time for me to hang it up. At 38, could 2023 be the year he pens his fighting swan song?.
Young Prodigy Drew Parker Retires from Wrestling at 25
In an unexpected turn of events that has left many fans astounded, the wrestling world witnessed the retirement of one of its brightest young stars. Drew Parker, at a mere 25 years old, has decided to hang up his boots, but not without leaving an indelible mark in the world of professional wrestling. A Decade of Dominance Parker’s journey into wrestling began way back in 2012 when he was just a teenager. Over the span of a mere decade, he achieved more than what many wrestlers dream of in their entire careers. The 10-year stint saw him clinch numerous titles in prominent promotions like GCW and Dragon Pro Wrestling. But what truly distinguished Parker from others was his tenacity and grit, particularly in the challenging world of deathmatches. The Rise of a Deathmatch Legend Drew Parker’s reputation as a formidable force in the deathmatch scene began in 2017. His fierce battles, which were not for the faint-hearted, made headlines in Japan, the USA, and the UK. His mastery in the ring and the sheer courage with which he approached every fight saw him winning numerous titles and deathmatch tournaments. His achievements in BJW deserve special mention. In just three years, he made history by becoming the BJW Deathmatch Heavyweight Champion and further cemented his legacy as the first foreigner to win the esteemed Ikki Tousen tournament. The Final Bow The wrestling fraternity was in for a surprise during a TNT Extreme show. As the night progressed, Parker took center stage, holding a microphone, not to challenge an opponent, but to address the audience. In his heartfelt address, he recounted his journey, achievements, and the decisions he made throughout his illustrious career. A major revelation was his conscious choice of not joining the bigger wrestling promotions like WWE, IMPACT Wrestling, or AEW. “I’ve achieved everything I had set out to achieve,” he announced to a sea of shocked fans, making it clear that he saw no further goals to pursue in the wrestling arena. Tributes Pour In BJW, where Parker had some of his most iconic bouts, was quick to acknowledge his contribution. In an official statement, they said, “We have sad news. Former BJW wrestler Drew Parker has announced his retirement from pro wrestling. He was in BJW for about 3 years, rising to the top and becoming BJW Deathmatch Heavyweight Champion and the first foreigner to win the Ikki Tousen tournament. We owe him a debt of gratitude. We wish him success in his second life.” Beyond the Ring While fans worldwide are undoubtedly saddened by the premature end of such an illustrious career, many respect Parker’s decision. The wrestling business is tough, and the physical and mental toll it can take on an individual is immense. Parker’s early retirement serves as a poignant reminder that sometimes, one must prioritize their well-being and personal desires over fame and fortune. As the wrestling community bids farewell to Drew Parker, one thing is certain: his legacy will live on. He might have retired early, but in his short career, he has left footprints that will inspire countless aspiring wrestlers for years to come.
Rob Van Dam Ponders Over Professional Wrestling Retirement
In a candid chat on the “1 Of A Kind” podcast, the legendary professional wrestler Rob Van Dam expressed his contemplation about retirement from the WWE. Recollecting when he assumed his retirement was imminent, he remarked: “I used to think I was gonna retire a few years ago. I didn’t put a whole lot of thought into it, I just kind of figured I was semi-retired.” Rob Van Dam seems to be treading the path of iconic Dory Funk Jr., who never formally retired from professional wrestling. He adds: “But now I don’t think I ever will. I mean, why bother? I’ll just probably do like Dory Funk Jr. and just ever not retire.” Authenticity above All: Van Dam’s Views on Comeback Culture Van Dam, renowned for his authenticity and honesty, spoke about how he dislikes the idea of coming back to the ring after retirement, a trend prevalent among many professional wrestlers. “As much as I pride myself on being genuine and honest, and I like to set an example by the way I live,” Van Dam said. “I wouldn’t wanna retire and then come back two years later and wrestle again like everybody does.” Yet, he admits he isn’t sure how he’d feel post-retirement, given his enduring involvement in the wrestling business. The multi-talented wrestler doesn’t perceive retirement as easy and questions whether he would miss it. RVD’s most recent match occurred on April 29 against Channing Decker at International Wrestling Cartel’s Superstar Showdown IV event, as recorded by Cagematch. A Legacy in the Making As one of professional wrestling’s most dynamic performers, Rob Van Dam’s contemplations about retirement have stirred up the wrestling community. His remarks offer insight into many athletes’ grueling decision-making process when considering their twilight years. Whether he retires or continues, RVD’s legacy in professional wrestling is secured, influencing future generations.
