The stream of retirements from MMA continues. Former UFC and Bellator MMA veteran Josh Koscheck officially announced his retirement on June 28.
The 40-year-old “Kos” broke the news by way of The Luke Thomas Show on Sirius XM. Mostly known for his antics and attitude while a cast member of the first season of The Ultimate Fighter, he was defeated in the tournament semifinals by eventual winner Diego Sanchez.
Koscheck last fought for Bellator in February 2017. The first-round TKO loss he suffered against Mauricio Alonso at Bellator 172 would be his last bout.
“The biggest thing about my mixed martial arts career, at the ending, it didn’t go the way I wanted. It’s almost like you kind of just lose it,” Koscheck said.
The former NCAA Division I wrestling champion went 0-6 during a five-year span with five of those defeats being finishes. His final victory came by split decision against Mike Pierce at UFC 143 in 2012.
“I truly didn’t have it. I couldn’t go out there and compete with these young guys. I felt great in the gym. I was in great shape. I don’t think I was ever in better shape than I was at 38, 39 and 40, but I just didn’t have it,” he continued.
Koscheck finishes his career with a 17-11 record. The height of his UFC run was a title shot against then-UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre at UFC 124 in 2010. GSP took the victory unanimously but the clash is mostly remembered thanks to Koscheck suffering a broken orbital bone.
While with the UFC Koscheck was also given “Fight of the Night” and “Knockout of the Night” honors twice each as well as winning “Submission of the Night” once. He did leave the door open for a return to MMA saying ,”You never know, I may come back someday.”
The Pennsylvania native turned Californian is leaving MMA to focus on other business interests and life in his new home of Raleigh, N.C.
The full interview with Thomas can be viewed above.