Julie Kedzie announces her retirement

Julie Kedzie, a pioneer in women's MMA, has decided that her fight at UFC Fight Night 33 on Friday night will be her last.

Kedzie lost via split decision to Bethe Correia (29-28, 28-29, 29-28), losing her fourth straight fight. Kedzie, who was 16-13 overall in her career, was most well-known for her fight against Gina Carano on EliteXC: Destiny on Feb. 10, 2007.

Here is her announcement via Twitter below:

Before walking out to my fight today, I had a long talk with my coach and we decided that this would be my last MMA fight.

— Julie Kedzie (@julesk_fighter) December 7, 2013

I would have loved to have gone out on a win, but c'est la vie-don't leave it to the judges. Heartbreak is a huge part of this sport.

— Julie Kedzie (@julesk_fighter) December 7, 2013

I really truly want to thank all of you for being a part of my journey as a fighter. I will still be involved in MMA for the rest of my life

— Julie Kedzie (@julesk_fighter) December 7, 2013

..but now it's time for me to accept that I can give more to the sport by stepping back and taking role in helping to develop other fighters

— Julie Kedzie (@julesk_fighter) December 7, 2013

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the @UFC , my team, and all of you who have made me achieve some amazing dreams.

— Julie Kedzie (@julesk_fighter) December 7, 2013