In a bittersweet moment at UFC 303, former Invicta FC atomweight champion Michelle Waterson-Gomez announced her retirement from professional mixed martial arts. The emotional decision came after a tough loss against Gillian Robertson, Waterson-Gomez’s fifth consecutive defeat.
As the crowd fell silent, commentator Joe Rogan informed the audience of Waterson-Gomez’s retirement. The news visibly moved the veteran, as she fought back tears while reflecting on her illustrious career.
“I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for the UFC,” Waterson-Gomez said. “And all you fans continue to push me. Fight runs through my veins, it’s made me who I am. When you fight, you chase greatness.”
The 32-year-old karate expert admitted that the decision to retire was not an easy one, but she found solace in the words of her husband.
“I talked to my husband and asked him, ‘What am I if I’m not fighting?’ And he told me, ‘Just because you’re not fighting in the octagon, it doesn’t mean you stop fighting.’ And that really helped me to accept moving on,” Waterson-Gomez said with emotion.
Waterson-Gomez’s career in the UFC spanned nearly a decade, during which she faced some of the toughest opponents in the women’s division. Her skill and determination earned her a legion of fans, who celebrated her as a true pioneer in the sport.
As the montage of her career highlights played, Waterson-Gomez expressed her gratitude to the organization and her devoted supporters.
“For as long I’ve known my husband, the UFC has been my home. And you all have been my family,” she said, her voice wavering with emotion.
While the news of Waterson-Gomez’s retirement may come as a disappointment to her fans, her touching farewell speech serves as a testament to her character and the indelible mark she has left on the world of mixed martial arts.
An emotional tribute for Michelle Waterson-Gomez after she announced her retirement at #UFC303 🫶 pic.twitter.com/zc5ClBDuWw
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) June 30, 2024
