Mixed Martial Arts veteran Cung Le revealed his retirement from active competition this week.
The 42-year old athlete had a storied, high-profile kickboxing job just before entering into Mixed Martial Arts in 2006 under the Strikeforce banner.
Le compiled a 9-3 expert MMA document throughout 8 years, winning the Strikeforce Middleweight title during that period, as well as numerous high-profile UFC victories.
In his last battle versus Michael Bisping at UFC Fight Evening 48 in August of 2014, Le lost by TKO and consequently fell short a drug test that was later reversed.
Last month, Le was named as a plaintiff in a class-action claim filed versus Zuffa, which included various other previous UFC competitors such as Jon Fitch as well as Nate Quarry. Since this writing, the situation continues to be pending.
Le released the following declaration to the Mixed Martial Arts media regarding his decision to hangup the gloves.
“After several months of thought and discussion with my wife and family we realize our future includes many things, but active competition in mixed martial arts is no longer one of them therefore I am officially announcing my retirement from active competition. Fighting will never be far from my heart and martial arts will always continue to be a part of my daily life. I have thoroughly enjoyed the career that I have been blessed with due in large part to all my fans and the many people who have helped me on my journey.
I want to personally thank my wife, Suzanne, my three Little Ninjas, my Mother, Sister and the rest of my incredible family for their support, prayers and inspiration. I’d like to take this opportunity to personally thank Scott Coker for his long-time friendship and support of my career, Gary Ibarra for your tenacity, to Khoa Do for everything, Scott Sheeley, you know, and to Jane Estioko, thank you for your loyalty. I’d also like to thank all of my past and present USH Team Family members, I am grateful for every round.
I’d like to recognize the UFC for the opportunity they have provided me, the sport of mixed martial arts, and more importantly the fans who love it, you will never be far from my heart. It has truly been my honor and my privilege to entertain you.”