Shogun Rua's retirement calls for big-time financial benefit overhaul in the UFC, says Ariel Helwani

UFC 283 marked the last time Shogun Rua stepped into the octagon after a storied career. The 41-year-old faced Ihor Potieria in what was announced to be his last mixed martial arts fight.

Shogun lost in the very first round with the younger Potieria raining punches on him and securing a TKO victory. Rua's retirement in his home country was spoilt by Potieria but nonetheless, the home crowd showed love to their beloved fighter.

Ariel Helwani came out with an important statement in the aftermath of Rua's retirement calling for financial support or reimbursement of some sort for the retired fighter from the UFC.

Helwani tweeted:

"Wouldn't it be great if we all knew that because of his 16 years of service in the UFC, Shogun would get some kind of pension? 16 years. Something? 5 years worth? 4? Something? Would be nice."

Shogun Rua spent 16 years of his career at the UFC dating back to his promotional debut against Forrest Griffin at UFC 76 in 2007. An exceptional commitment such as this may well warrant a pension, especially considering the volatile nature of the sport and the physical ramifications it entails.

Check out Ariel Helwani's tweet below:

Helwani's demands tie up with the recent exit of former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou from the UFC. The Cameroonian turned down the biggest heavyweight payday in UFC history in view of his other demands not being met. The demands included a fighter advocate on the company's board and health support for fighters.

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Shogun Rua gives his final post-fight interview

Shogun Rua spoke for one final time after his first-round loss against Ihor Potieria.

The former light heavyweight champion thanked his home crowd for coming out and bowed out with grace despite the loss. While the Brazilian would have loved to end his career on a high note, he's sure it is time to hang up the gloves.

During his post-fight octagon interview with Daniel Cormier, Rua said:

"First of all, sorry, you guys. I wanted to end my career with a win. But I'm gonna stop it right here. I'm gonna end my career here. I've been in the game for 21 years, [and] in the UFC for 16. I have to thank my fans, everyone, Dana [White], Lorenzo [Fertitta], everyone in the UFC that made it happen through all these years." [via translator]

Check out Shogun Rua's final address to fans on Twitter: