Jack Shore has sent shockwaves through the world of MMA by announcing his retirement.
The 29-year-old featherweight leaves the sport after a title win at Cage Warriors and nine fights in the UFC.
Jack Shore debuted for Dana White's promotion in July 2020. The Welsh fighter won four consecutive bantamweight fights before suffering his first career defeat at the hands of Ricky Simon in July 2022.
A weight gain led to a win over Makwan Amirkhani, but since then Shore has suffered two consecutive losses, including a recent defeat to Youssef Zalal, which prompted him to announce his premature retirement from fighting.
Jack Shore after his fight at UFC 286.
Jack Shore issues retirement statement
On Wednesday, Jack Shore released a lengthy statement on social media about his fighting career.
'Tank' revealed that his UFC contract has expired. There was an option to re-sign with MMA's premier league, but he has decided to retire from MMA and focus on other things.
“Hi guys, it's been quiet for a while, enjoying time with my friends and family,” Shore wrote on Instagram.
“In what may come as a surprise to some, I have decided to end my professional fighting career. After fighting out my contract and taking some time to think about the future, it is clear to me that my time fighting professionally is up.
“Although I had the opportunity to re-sign with UFC, I have decided that my days are over. I want to thank the UFC for letting me fulfill my childhood dream of fighting for the greatest organization in the world and against some of the best in the world. I enjoyed every minute!
“What started as a kid with a dream led me to amateur titles, world titles and realizing my dream of fighting in the UFC. I can truly say that for every fight I gave the training and the fights my all, never said no, never asked questions, just kept my head down, stayed true to myself and achieved more than I ever thought possible had kept.
“Throughout my twenties, fighting and training was my life and sole focus, but the last few weeks/months have shown that this is no longer the case. And I always promised myself that if my mentality was examined, I would retire instead of the sport making me retire. Injuries have caught up with me after a lifetime in the sport. I leave with my mental condition, good health, financially stable and fully ready to move into the future.”
MMA community pays tribute to Jack Shore
Shore's retirement post was met with an outpouring of well wishes from people involved in MMA.
Cory McKenna commented, “You have been an inspiration to many and have done so many great things, happy retirement Jack!”
Jake Hadley said: “Happy retirement.”
Referee Marc Goddard wrote: “A great representative of yourself, Wales, your father, your family, your gym, your team – and everything else you have put yourself into. Respect the young man.”
Brendan Loughnane added: “Legend.”
Despite being so young, it's clear that Shore has made his mark in MMA.
Everyone at Bloody Elbow wishes him a very happy retirement.
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