UFC Veteran Michael Chiesa Announces Retirement
Welterweight veteran Michael Chiesa, 38, announced his retirement from MMA, which will follow his upcoming fight on March 28. Chiesa, known for his grappling, will conclude a career that included 19 professional victories.
- Michael Chiesa's final bout will be against Carlston Harris at UFC Fight Night in Seattle, his home state. He noted the event's timing felt serendipitous, as it marks his 22nd UFC fight (a number significant to him) and falls on his parents' wedding anniversary. - Chiesa first entered the UFC by winning the inaugural live season of *The Ultimate Fighter* (TUF 15) in 2012, where he defeated Al Iaquinta in the finale with a first-round rear-naked choke. - Out of his 19 professional victories, 12 have been secured by submission, showcasing the grappling skills he is known for. His UFC record stands at 14 wins and 7 losses. - Throughout his career, Chiesa has earned victories over several high-profile opponents, including former interim champion Tony Ferguson, former champion Rafael dos Anjos, Carlos Condit, and Beneil Dariush. - The decision to retire comes after a career resurgence; Chiesa had contemplated retiring after a third consecutive loss in 2023 but will enter his final fight on a three-fight winning streak. - In addition to his fighting career, Chiesa has been active as a studio analyst for the UFC, a role he has undertaken for select events.
