BREAKING: UFC welterweight Jason Witt announces retirement from MMA; fighters and former opponents pay tribute

UFC welterweight fighter Jason Witt has officially announced his retirement via an Instagram post. 'The Vanilla Gorilla' penned a heartfelt message, expressing his gratitude to all those who have been a part of his career. Witt wrote on Instagram:

"🍦🦍 It’s taken me a week to decide how to put this into words because nothing seemed to sum up what it means to me…but here it goes."

"I am officially RETIRED from Mixed Martial Arts."

"For the past 15+ years I dedicated myself and my life to MMA. Through literal blood, sweat and tears it taught me how to be disciplined, how to overcome adversity, and how to be humble and respectful. It forced me to grow up to become the man I needed to be to reach my goal to fight in the UFC. It allowed me to travel all over the world, introduced me to all kinds of people, and help make memories that I will cherish forever."

"I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. I am closing this chapter in my life, but I’m very excited for what the future holds."

"To each and every person that has been a part of my MMA career (there’s way too many tag individually), from the bottom of my heart THANK YOU. To everyone that has followed or shown support, you are greatly appreciated."

"On to the next chapter!"

Witt made his UFC debut in 2020 but suffered a first-round knockout loss to Takashi Sato. While 'The Vanilla Gorilla' bounced back with a submission win over Cole Williams, it would be one of only two victories in the promotion.

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MMA fighters pay tribute to Jason Witt's career

Wishes started pouring in from the entire MMA community as Jason Witt confirmed hanging up his gloves for good. Even former opponent Bryan Barberena, who is one of only two UFC fighters to have lost to Witt, paid his tribute to 'The Vanilla Gorilla'. Barberena wrote:

"Congrats! Was a honor to share the octagon with you. Nothing but the best on the next chapter. 🙏🏽"

Comments via @the_vanillagorilla on Instagram

Jason Witt's last outing ended in a first-round KO loss to debutant Josh Quinlan in August, making it two in a row for the Missouri native. Witt turns 37 next month and ends his career with a 2-4 UFC record. His overall professional record stands at 19-9.