Andrei Arlovski's UFC career has finally come to an end.
On Saturday, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that the former heavyweight champion fought his final bout with the organization, losing a controversial split decision to Martin Budai on the undercard of UFC 303.
“Yeah, that was Andrei's last fight,” White said at the UFC 303 post-fight press conference.
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Arlovski made his pro debut in 1999 and won the UFC heavyweight title in 2005. He has an astounding 42 fights inside the Octagon (though his final UFC bout, against Budai, was far from amazing). “The Pit Bull” has wins over a host of opponents, including Tim Sylvia, Fabricio Werdum and Frank Mir.
One might wonder why UFC gave Michelle Waterson a farewell promotion after her retirement bout at UFC 303 but not Arlovski. He may no longer be under contract with UFC, but the 45-year-old is looking to continue his fighting career elsewhere.
“What makes me great isn't the 34 wins, it's the 20 more times I've figured out how to win before Saturday night, UFC 303,” Arlovski wrote on Monday after his loss to Budai.
“UFC 303 was not my night. I didn't want my journey with UFC to end like that, but it is what it is. And, yeah, I'm not complaining, I'm just wondering how it happened. So, my chapter with UFC is over, but my book is not over yet. We'll see what happens.” [There’s] There is still a story to tell.”
As for his current plans outside the Octagon, Andrei Arlovski is planning on taking a much-needed break with his family.
Which organization should sign the former UFC heavyweight champion?
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