UFC veteran Vinc Pichel has officially announced his retirement from professional mixed martial arts. The fighter, known for his gritty performances over 12 bouts inside the octagon, is stepping away from competition at the age of 41.
Pichel`s career concluded following a three-fight losing streak, with his final fight being a decision loss to Rafa Garcia at UFC Mexico in March.
Sharing his decision on Instagram, Pichel expressed mixed emotions regarding the end of his competitive career.
“There is so much to say. The short version: At 42 years old and I’m officially retiring from competing in MMA.”
“The longer version: I’m sad, I’m excited, I’m happy, I’m afraid. I’m grateful to everyone who was with me or part of my MMA career and there are too many to list. … It’s meant the world to me! As for everyone else who was part of my career, it’s because of you, too, that this kid from California was able to do what he’s done. Thank you, and thank you to everyone who made me as proud as I am to be me today!”
He also indicated plans to continue using his social media platforms and potentially write a book detailing his journey with unseen photos and videos.
“I will still be using this and my other accounts to post. I’m also planning on using it to write a book to you guys about my MMA journey with pics and videos no one’s ever seen!”
Concluding his retirement message, Pichel offered some parting advice.
“So I guess this is it, as I walk away I’ll leave you with this: Do what feels right, don’t apologize for being you, learn what you can from who you can, no regret’s and most importantly, have fun!”
Pichel initially entered the UFC spotlight as a contestant on Season 15 of The Ultimate Fighter, where he won two fights before being eliminated by Al Iaquinta. After losing his official UFC debut to Rustam Khabilov in December 2012, “From Hell” found his stride, compiling a record of seven wins against five losses in the promotion.
His impressive run included winning four straight fights and seven of his next eight bouts at one point. Notable victories include a decision win over seasoned veteran Jim Miller at UFC 252 in August 2020. His last win in the UFC was a decision victory against Austin Hubbard at UFC Vegas 34 in August 2021.
Marcus Blakely