Six-Time UFC Veteran Jason Witt Announces Retirement

UFC welterweight competitor Jason Witt has announced his retirement from mixed martial arts at 35 years old.

“It’s taken me a week to decide how to put this into words because nothing seemed to sum up what it means to me…but here it goes,” Witt wrote on Instagram. “I am officially RETIRED from mixed martial arts.”

Witt exits the sport with a 19-9 mark compiled over the course of a professional tenure that began in 2013. He went 2-4 in UFC competition, earning wins over Bryan Barberena and Cole Williams. “The Vanilla Gorilla” last appeared at UFC on ESPN 41 on Aug. 13, where he suffered a first-round knockout loss to Josh Quinlan. Prior to his UFC stint, Witt fought for organizations such as Legacy Fighting Alliance, Bellator MMA and Titan FC, among others.

“For the past [15-plus] years I dedicated myself and my life to MMA,” Witt wrote. “Through literal blood, sweat and tears it taught me how to be disciplined, how to overcome adversity, and how to be humble and respectful. It forced me to grow up to become the man I needed to be to reach my goal to fight in the UFC. It allowed me to travel all over the world, introduced me to all kinds of people, and help make memories that I will cherish forever.

“I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. I am closing this chapter in my life, but I’m very excited for what the future holds.”

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