Barboza Tells Promoters Leave Him Alone After UFC Retirement

Edson Barboza wants promoters and managers to stop calling.

The Brazilian, who retired after losing to Esteban Ribovics at UFC 330 in Philadelphia earlier this month, said his decision to walk away from mixed martial arts after 17 years is final. Speaking to Sherdog, Barboza delivered a direct message to anyone looking to lure him back into competition.

"Managers, event promoters, please leave me alone," he said. "Don't offer me any fights."

Eye Injury Drove Barboza's UFC Exit

Barboza, 39, left his gloves in the cage after suffering a fourth consecutive defeat, this one by finish in front of a Philadelphia crowd that chanted his name. The moment was especially emotional because his children were ringside for the first time. He told Sherdog that age was not the primary reason he stepped away — rather, a severe left-eye injury sustained against Lerone Murphy last year proved to be the turning point. While Barboza said he believes he can still beat many fighters, competing at the highest level is no longer realistic.

Retirement does not mean leaving the sport entirely. Barboza said he plans to share the knowledge he gained from training with coaches around the world over 32 years in combat sports. He added that keeping that experience to himself would be unfair, suggesting a future role in coaching or instruction.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Edson Barboza has blunt message for promoters after UFC retirement