UFC veteran announces decision to retire after upcoming fight

Although we're just one month into the year, 2023 has already given the UFC and MMA community some unforgettable moments, and that doesn't look like changing anytime soon as Bobby Green has announced his decision to retire.

'King' has been a staple in MMA ever since rising to fame in the late 2000s while working with Affliction, King of the Cage, and numerous other promotions in the sport. Known for his outspoken nature and unique fighting style, the lightweight has been a favorite amongst fans for over a decade.

As he approaches an incredible 45th fight in mixed martial arts, Bobby Green has today made the shocking announcement that he plans on laying down the gloves following his bout on April 22.

Green will share the octagon with Jared Gordon for his final outing and will hope to cut his two-fight losing streak and ride off into the sunset with one last win under his belt.

Just last year, the 36-year-old was one-half of a number one contender's matchup at 155lbs, and although he failed to get his hands raised, he earned a lot of plaudits from fans for taking the fight against Islam Makhachev on short notice.

During his most recent appearance inside the octagon, Green was on the receiving end of a huge knockout when he collided with Drew Dober in a brawl he was arguably winning until the finish.

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Bobby Green's legacy in the UFC and MMA

Best known for putting on fantastic displays inside the renowned octagon, Bobby Green also had a largely successful career prior to making the jump over to the UFC.

Just eight fights into his professional career, the California-born athlete managed to beat three men on the same night and win the WFC lightweight tournament. In his next outing, he added to his success by winning the TFA lightweight championship with a TKO victory over veteran Toby Grear.

Later on in his career, Green won both the KOTC Junior welterweight and KOTC lightweight titles over a four-fight stretch before making his way into Strikeforce and shortly afterwards, the UFC.

Beginning life in his new company with a submission of the night bonus on his debut, the well-rounded MMA star went on to secure four fight-of-the-night performances. Alongside the bonuses, he holds the record for most significant strikes in UFC lightweight history at 1477.