Jack Shore called it a career by the time he turned 30.
The nine-time UFC champion and former Cage Warriors champion announced his retirement via social media on Wednesday.
“It may come as a surprise to some people, but I have decided to end my career as a professional fighter,” Shore wrote on Instagram. “After fighting through my contract and taking time to think about what to do next, it is clear that my time as a professional fighter is over. I had a chance to re-sign with the UFC, but I decided my time was up. I want to thank the UFC for making my childhood dream of fighting for the biggest organization in the world come true. I’ve enjoyed every minute of it!
“What started as a dream as a child led me to an amateur title, a world title, and a dream of fighting in the UFC. I didn’t say no, I didn’t ask questions, I just kept my head down, I stayed true to myself, and I can truly say that I achieved more than I ever thought possible.
“Throughout my 20s, fighting and training were my life and sole focus. However, over the past few weeks/months, I realized that this was no longer the case. And I did a mental check-up. I always promised myself that I would retire from the sport, not let the sport make me retire. I am mentally stable and have had my fair share of injuries throughout my career. I am in good health, financially stable, and ready to move forward.”
Shore started his professional career with 16 straight wins, won the Cage Warriors bantamweight gold medal, and then signed with the UFC. “Tank” won his first five Octagon appearances, but dropped three of his last four. Shore, 29, last competed at UFC Edmonton, where he suffered a second-round submission loss to Youssef Zalal on November 2nd.
“While I have been a martial artist my whole life and will never stop being involved in the sport I love, my love for competing is not what it used to be, so I know it’s time to step away,” Shore wrote.
