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‘Three Surgeries, One Eye, and No Relief’ – Retired UFC Hall of Famer Reveals Brutal Aftermath

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated May 24, 2025 10:40 AM ET

Fighting through injury is often seen as a badge of honor in mixed martial arts, where grit can mean the difference between victory and defeat. But long after the final bell, many fighters continue to endure the consequences of their careers. One UFC Hall of Famer has recently pulled back the curtain on just how devastating those consequences can be—even years after retirement.

Michael Bisping, now 46, was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2019. The former middleweight champion recently spoke with journalist Mike Bohn about the long-term impact fighting has had on his body. During the interview, Bisping didn’t hold back: ‘Last year was so bad I honestly didn’t know how I was going to continue living my life. I was in so much pain. I had three surgeries back to back. None of them helped—in fact, all they’ve done is made my condition worse.’

Bisping listed the damages: one functional eye, two total knee replacements, a torn labrum awaiting surgery, and a malformed nose rebuilt with his ribs—now blocking airflow at night. ‘As the hours go on throughout the day, it gets tougher and tougher,’ he said. ‘But I knew what I was signing up for.’

Before retiring in 2018, Bisping built a remarkable career, becoming the first British fighter to win a UFC championship and earning notable victories over names like Anderson Silva, Luke Rockhold, and Dan Henderson. Bisping’s eye injury—a detached retina—was in fact a major factor in his retirement in 2018. Today, he remains active in the sport as a UFC commentator and co-host of the popular podcast 'Believe You Me.'

Dana White and the UFC have increased their support for post-career medical issues, offering programs for health insurance and injury assistance. Still, stories like Bisping’s underscore that the price of greatness often outlasts the glory.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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