Edson Barboza opens up on decision to retire at UFC 330 – ‘I can’t compete at a high level’
Edson Barboza has called it a career. The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) legend suffered his second consecutive stoppage loss last night (Sat., Aug. 15, 2026), falling to Argentine prospect Esteban Ribovics to open the UFC 330 main card inside Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (watch highlights). Following the loss, an emotional Barboza officially announced […]
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - On August 15, 2026, Edson Barboza announced his retirement from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) after suffering his second consecutive stoppage defeat at UFC 330. The Brazilian fighter, 40 years old, cited his body no longer being able to compete at a high level as the reason for his decision to hang up his gloves.
Barboza, known for his violent and entertaining fighting style, had a storied career that included notable bouts against MMA legends such as Khabib Nurmagomedov, Tony Ferguson, Justin Gaethje, and Anthony Pettis. He also held the distinction of having one of the toughest resumes of any UFC veteran, having competed in two weight classes and recorded five headlining events during his 15-year tenure with the promotion.
Barboza's career highlights include landing the first spinning wheel-kick knockout in UFC history and earning multiple "Fight of the Night" and "Knockout of the Year" contenders. He leaves the sport tied with Dustin Poirier for the second-most "Fight of the Night" bonuses in UFC history.
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