This past weekend (Sat. May 12, 2018) one of the most legendary mixed martial arts (MMA) careers came to an end.

Former UFC light heavyweight champion Vitor Belfort has confirmed that his second round knockout loss to Lyoto Machida at the UFC 224 pay-per-view (PPV) this past weekend was indeed his last. This brings an end to the Brazilian's over 20-year storied career.

For someone to have over 20 years experience in any field is impressive, but to keep up competing at the top level of the MMA game for two decades is an unprecedented accomplishment.

Belfort entered his match-up with Machida off a unanimous decision win over Nate Marquardt back in June of last year.

Before that, he had suffered three-straight TKO defeats to the likes of Kelvin Gastelum, Ronaldo Jacare Souza, and Gegard Mousasi.

Of course the Brazilian would've liked to end his career with a victory in front of his native Brazilian crowd in Rio de Janerio; but the MMA gods had other plans and it was his fellow countrymen Lyoto Machida's night to shine instead.

After the fight Belfort was interviewed by Jimmy Smith, and he confirmed this fight was indeed his last before leaving his gloves in the Octagon to signify the end of his fighting days (quotes via Bloody Elbow):

“It’s been a long ride, and life is about beginning, middle and end,” Belfort said in his post-fight interview. “I think I’ve come to the end. Congratulations to Machida. I’m leaving my gloves here.”

Belfort has been fighting in the sport of MMA since 1996.

Over the course of his career he has shared the cage with fellow legends such as Randy Couture, Wanderlei Silva, Chuck Liddell, Tito Ortiz, Alistair Overeem, Dan Henderson, Anderson Silva, Rich Franklin, Chris Weidman, and so many more.

Now, it's time for the former champion to rest after his amazing career in the sport, a sport he helped pioneer into what it has become today - a mainstream phenomenon. 

What are your thoughts on Belfort finally deciding to hang his gloves up for good? Do you think that he will actually stay retired? Or will he return for one last big fight to try and go out on a victory? Let us know your thoughts on the matter in the comments section below!

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