Former UFC fighter Akbarh Arreola has formally announced his retirement from mixed martial arts competition. The Mexican fighter made the announcement through his Facebook account on Tuesday.
"I wanted to take this opportunity to announce that out of respect for my family, my physical integrity and to the sport, I'm retiring. To my fortune, and I'm sure for many of you guys, today we have many compatriots and friends 100% dedicated to the sport and they can continue to compete at the highest level that is demanded. Many thanks to all the people that support me from the beginning and to all those who with their good vibes always drew a smile on my face."
The 33-year-old lightweight fighter, who started his career in 2002, is considered by many to be a pioneer in Mexican MMA, competing 27 times in various parts of Mexico. On July 2014, Arreola's opportunity to compete in the biggest stage of MMA came to fruition when he competed against Tiago dos Santos at UFC on Fox 12. Following an unsuccessful UFC debut, Arreola competed three more times in the UFC, notching a victory over MMA veteran Yves Edwards.
Arreola retires with a professional MMA record of 23-11-1, which includes competitions with notable fighters such as Francisco Trinaldo, Gabe Ruediger, Antonio McKee and Mac Danzig.