5 most heartbreaking retirements in UFC history

#4 Former UFC light heavyweight title challenger Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson

He left it in there! @Anthony_Rumble retires after #UFC210 pic.twitter.com/uJwCjfqDoE

— UFC (@ufc) April 9, 2017

Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson isn't retired anymore. He recently notched up a comeback win over Jose Augusto in his first fight in over four years and is slated to face Ryan Bader at Bellator 268 in October.

However, when 'Rumble' chose to walk away from the UFC back in April 2017, his decision was met with an outpouring of emotion. After falling to Daniel Cormier for the second time in a light heavyweight title fight, employing some bizarre tactics in the process, the Florida native decided that he had had enough.

Tearfully announcing his retirement from the sport, 'Rumble' cut a sorry figure, especially for someone who is renowned for his impressive knockout power. He had fallen short at the final hurdle twice, both times to Cormier, and seemed like he'd never recover.

But now, Johnson seems to have found motivation in a welcome sight for MMA fans.

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#3 Former UFC fighter Brad Pickett

UFC Fight Night: Silva v Bisping

Brad Pickett was never the best UFC fighter. In fact, with only five wins in 14 UFC fights, he was probably among the least talented fighters on the roster. However, Pickett was a massive fan favorite because of his toughness and willingness to put on a fight.

'One Punch' had one final chance to leave on a high when he faced Marlon Vera in his hometown of London, England in March 2017. And after appearing to be cruising to a decision victory, Pickett saw his world turned upside down when 'Chito' landed a flush head kick and followed it up with some serious ground-and-pound.

Pickett's farewell ended in disappointment, and the sight of him thanking his fans and leaving his hat in the octagon was beyond emotional.