Cathal Pendred ends his MMA career to move onto the next chapter
Irish MMA fighter Cathal Pendred has announced his retirement from the sport.
The 28-year-old UFC fighter, who won 17 and drew one of his 22 pro fights, has released a statement, confirming that he has decided to retire in order to pursue other interests.
The Dubliner, who lost his last two UFC bouts, says that he no longer has the passion to continue fighting but hopes to remain involved in the sport.
“I now find that my passion is no longer what it was and I feel that it is time for me to move on,” he said. “I have other interests that I want to pursue.”
Pendred added that, “My love of MMA remains with me. I intend to maintain my involvement with the sport, but I no longer wish to compete.”
All the best to @Pendred who has announced his retirement from MMA, thanks for some great fights & memories Cathal! pic.twitter.com/tfdFaXFdhr
— Inpho Photography (@Inphosports) November 25, 2015
“I am a passionate person and I always give 100% to what I do. I have been passionate about MMA for a long time and my focus on the sport has been my driving force for the last 9 years.
“I now find that my passion is no longer what it was and I feel that it is time for me to move on. I have other interests that I want to pursue. The time is right to close one door and open another. My love of MMA remains with me. I intend to maintain my involvement with the sport, but I no longer wish to compete.
“I have developed as a person because of Mixed Martial Arts, as I learned to cope with the discipline and demands of the sport. MMA has made me a stronger person. This strength will carry through into other areas of my life, as I move on to pursue new goals.
Onto the next chapter..... pic.twitter.com/ebKMx666qP
— Cathal Pendred (@Pendred) November 25, 2015
“I would like to thank all my coaches and team mates for their friendship and support. Thank you to everyone who has followed and supported me on this journey. Indeed thanks to everyone that I met through MMA from start to finish. This chapter of my life wouldn't have been the same without you.
“My participation in competing in MMA has come to an end, but my love for the sport has not. I will maintain my interest in the sport and continue to support my team mates as they follow their dreams.”
