UFC Lightweight Damir Ismagulov Says He's "Forced" To Retire Due To Health Issues

Damir Ismagulov (24-2 MMA, 5-1 UFC), former M-1 Global lightweight champion and UFC lightweight contender, says health issues have forced him to pull the plug on his mixed martial arts career.

Thanks to all those who were with me: Damir Ismagulov

The 31-year-old Russian who fights out of Atyrau, Kazakhstan, arrived in the UFC back in December 2018, on the heels of his lightweight title run at Russian MMA promotion M-1 Global.

In his six-fight stint at the UFC, Damir Ismagulov remained unbeaten throughout the first five outings in the Octagon, marking decision victories over Alex Gorgees, Joel Alvarez, Thiago Moises, Rafael Alves, and Guram Kutateladze and climbed up to no 12 in the 155-pound rankings. In his latest fight, however, the Russian lost to Arman Tsarukyan via unanimous decision, at UFC Vegas 66 last month.

In a latest Instagram post, Ismagulov revealed his decision to retire from the sport, citing multiple health issues as forcing him to take the major step.

“Unfortunately, due to circumstances and health problems, I am forced to end my sports career,” Ismagulov wrote in the caption of his post. “Thanks to all those who were with me regardless of the outcome in the battles, who were sincerely sick and worried. It was an interesting journey, a moment to remember. (Give) everyone a hug.”