‘Health Problems’ Force Ismagulov To Retire From UFC

The ranked lightweight fighter made the call on Instagram, ending his career after six bouts in the UFC.

No. 12 ranked UFC lightweight Damir Ismagulov has retired from mixed martial arts competition at the age of 31.

Ismagulov made the announcement on his Instagram, writing “Unfortunately, due to circumstances and health problems, I am forced to end my sports career.”

“Thanks to all those who were with me regardless of the outcome in the battles, who were sincerely sick and worried. It was an interesting journey, a moment to remember. (Give) everyone a hug.”

He did not expand further on what specific health issues had compelled him to retire.

Ismagulov built up a 24-2 record in MMA with a 5-1 run in the UFC. His last fight for the promotion was in the co-main event of UFC Vegas 66 on December 17th. The Kazakh fighter lost a hard-fought decision to Arman Tsarukyan.

Ismagulov spent a good chunk of his early career fighting in M-1, becoming the promotion’s lightweight champion in 2017 and defending it twice before entering into the UFC in 2018. His first fight against Alex Gorgees was a dominating affair with Damir earning 30–25, 30–26, and 30–26 scores. He blanked opponents Joel Alvarez and Thiago Moises on the scorecards in his next two fights before having more of a challenge against Rafael Alves and Guram Kutateladze.

It’s always unfortunate to see a promising MMA career cut short. Damir Ismagulov joins Askar Askarov and Zabit Magomedsharipov as talented fighters whose careers were derailed due to unspecified medical issues (although recently there has been some suggestions Zabit may return some day). Obviously health must come first, but we can hope that Damir recovers to the point where he can get back to his craft. It was always a pleasure watching him in the cage.