Earlier today UFC light heavyweight legend Tito Ortiz was inducted into the organization’s Hall of Fame, sending the former champion down the final march towards his retirement fight against Forrest Griffin tonight at UFC 148. While some athletes struggle with the decision to walk away from their chose sport, Ortiz had appeared to be content since initially announcing he would hang up his gloves after the bout with Griffin.
Shortly after weighing in for the final time in his storied career, Ortiz took some time to talk to Fuel TV about his journey in MMA and reason for retiring despite the ability to keep competing.
Ortiz Going to “Put (Griffin) Through Hell” at UFC 148
“Definitely retired. Believe me, man, I’ve been doing this for fifteen years. I’ve gone through back surgery, knee surgery, neck surgery…it’s time to walk away on my own terms, healthy,” said Ortiz in an interview with the network, also citing a desire to spend time with his children instead of being an absentee father.
However, while Ortiz may be satisfied with his choice, that’s not to say the former “Huntington Beach Bad Boy” won’t miss some things including the very people who allowed him to live out his dreams.
“I would have to say the fans. The energy,” admitted Ortiz.
Check out the complete interview with Ortiz below:
PHOTO CREDIT – UFC
TweetSource: http://www.fighters.com/07/07/tito-ortiz-ready-to-walk-away-from-mma-but-will-miss-the-fans
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