UFC star Alexander Munoz retires after multiple injuries: "I want to give the next guy his chance"
UFC fighter Alexander Munoz recently released a statement about his departure from the UFC and requested matchmaker Sean Shelby to give another fighter a chance in the promotion. Munoz highlighted injuries incurred throughout his professional MMA career, alongside a desire to spend more time with his family, as reasons for leaving the sport.
In a heartfelt Instagram message to Shelby, Munoz said that his time with the UFC is over. The 34-year-old expressed his gratitude towards UFC CEO Dana White and all UFC officials for granting him the opportunity to compete in the multibillion-dollar organization. He also opened up about the knee, elbow, and shoulder injuries he suffered over the last six years as one of the reasons behind leaving the promotion:
''Dear Sean, I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to you, Dana, and the entire UFC organization for the incredible opportunities you have given me over the years... In the past six years, l’ve endured multiple injuries that have tested me both mentally and physically. These included but certainly weren’t limited to, two full knee reconstructions on my left knee, a torn PCL in my right knee, and more recently, two weeks before my last fight, I suffered a tear in my right elbow, a separated ac joint in my right shoulder.''
Munoz added:
''I have decided that it’s time to focus on preserving what’s left of my body for the future. My wife and I are planning to start a family this year, and I want to ensure that I can be fully present and healthy for them. It’s with a heavy heart, that I have decided to step away from the UFC roster. I want to give the next guy his chance while I still have the ability to enjoy a healthy future with my family. Thank you again for everything - for your support, your belief in me, and for giving me every opportunity to succeed.''
Alexander Munoz's tenure in the UFC
Alexander Munoz (7-2) squared off against Nick Newell on season two of Dana White's Contender Series and defeated him via unanimous decision. However, Munoz didn't get the contract and went on to fight for another regional promotion.
Munoz ultimately signed with the promotion and made his octagon debut in a unanimous decision loss against Nasrat Haqparast at UFC Vegas 6 in 2020. The 34-year-old then suffered a split decision loss against Luis Pena at UFC Vegas 24. In his last octagon appearance at UFC Vegas 77 last year, Munoz secured a unanimous decision win against Carl Deaton.