Edson Barboza retires from MMA after UFC 330 loss

Mixed martial arts veteran Edson Barboza has announced his retirement from the sport following a loss to Esteban Ribovics at UFC 330 in Philadelphia. The 40-year-old Brazilian lightweight concluded his career after 33 UFC fights, finishing with a professional record of 24-15.

Barboza cited physical decline and a loss of competitive edge as the primary reasons for his departure. He noted that doubts regarding his performance began during his previous fight against Lerone Murphy. “I don’t feel the same,” Barboza stated, adding that while he trained hard, his body could no longer compete at a high level.

Over a 15-year tenure with the UFC, Barboza established himself as one of the promotion's most prominent strikers. His career highlights include landing the first spinning wheel-kick knockout in UFC history and headlining five UFC cards. He leaves the sport having faced elite competition, including Khabib Nurmagomedov, Tony Ferguson, and Justin Gaethje.