Alexander Munoz has announced his retirement from the UFC due to a series of severe injuries, expressing gratitude for his career and a desire to focus on family and help the next generation.
Alexander Munoz has decided it’s time to hang up his UFC gloves. Tough call, right?
On Monday, the lightweight fighter took to social media to announce he’s stepping away from competition. Why? A mountain of injuries.
Check out Munoz’s message to UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby below.
At 34, Munoz snagged a unanimous decision win against Carl Deaton III at a UFC APEX event on July 15, 2023. His first UFC victory after losses to Luis Pena and Nasrat Haqparast.
After thanking Shelby, Dana White, and the UFC, Munoz explained his reasons for retiring.
“In the past six years, I’ve endured multiple injuries,” Munoz shared. “Two knee reconstructions on my left knee, a torn PCL in my right knee, and more. Just two weeks before my last fight, I tore my right elbow, separated my AC joint, and tore 75% of my lat—all during sparring.”
“Despite this, I fought through it all with just my left hand and managed a win. But then, more knee tears during sparring.” Ouch!
Munoz didn’t explicitly say he’s retiring forever. But considering those injuries and plans to start a family? Safe bet he won’t return to the cage.
He wrapped up by saying he wants to make room for another fighter to shine.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I step away from the UFC,” Munoz wrote. “I want the next guy to have his shot while I enjoy a healthy future with family.”
Besides his three UFC fights, Munoz is also remembered for his 2018 Contender Series appearance. He beat Nick Newell—a one-handed fighter—by unanimous decision. Only the second person to do so in Newell’s career!
Munoz finishes his pro career with a record of 7-2.
Read more from Munoz’s Instagram caption below.
“The last 30 years of competition taught me more than I imagined. Highs, lows, wins, setbacks—they shaped who I am today. Grateful for the knowledge gained and eager to pass it on.”
“Time to give back and help others on their journeys. Thanks for all the love and support!”