Two UFC Opponents Retire After Fighting Each Other at UFC Seattle

Chiesa was originally scheduled to face Carlston Harris, but visa issues forced the Guyanese fighter to withdraw from the contest. Price accepted the bout on short notice, stepping in to face the retiring Washington state native in what became his own final walk.

Perfect Ending 

The 38-year-old Chiesa entered the contest riding a three-fight winning streak, having submitted Tony Ferguson and Max Griffin before defeating Court McGee by decision. He controlled the grappling exchanges throughout the contest, eventually securing the back of Price and sinking in the rear-naked choke that forced the tap (via UFC on Paramount+ on X):

For the Spokane native, retiring in Seattle carried deep personal significance beyond the Octagon. Speaking to UFC commentator Daniel Cormier, Chiesa expressed his gratitude towards the UFC and his loved ones during his post-fight interview (via UFC on YouTube):

The victory gave Chiesa a four-fight winning streak to close his career, a fitting end for the Season 15 “Ultimate Fighter” winner who compiled a 15-7 UFC record across two weight classes.

Price’s Retirement

Price’s decision to retire came as a surprise, given his previous comments following his UFC 302 victory in 2024. 

“I don’t plan on retiring until God takes my legs from me or my arms,” Price told reporters after defeating Alex Morono.

The Florida native finishes his UFC tenure with an 8-11 record, having faced a murderer’s row of welterweight talent, including Robbie Lawler, Donald Cerrone, and Vicente Luque since his 2016 promotional debut.

Coincidentally, Price also served as Lawler’s final opponent before he retired back in 2023 (via ESPN MMA):

Price’s willingness to accept a short-notice fight against Chiesa ultimately allowed him to close his career on his own terms alongside a respected veteran counterpart.

Unfortunately for Price, who laid his gloves in the Octagon as well, he was not given the opportunity to speak in the Octagon, nor was he given a retirement highlight reel like Chiesa.