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Minotauro in training for UFC Rio in 2012. AP/Press Association Images
Big Nog

A legend of MMA has announced his retirement from the sport

Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira retires with a 34-10-1 record.

ANTONIO RODRIGO NOGUEIRA, widely regarded as one of the best heavyweights in mixed martial arts history, announced his retirement from the sport today at the age of 39.

Nogueira called time on a 17-year MMA career with a record of 34 wins, ten losses, one draw and one no contest.

‘Big Nog’ will remain close to the sport as he takes up a role with the UFC in Brazil while continuing to captain the successful Team Nogueira fight team

“Big Nog is a legend in the sport of MMA,” said UFC president Dana White.

“He is respected by fighters and fans worldwide. It has been an honor to watch him compete and I’m happy to see him retire. He will be a huge asset to the UFC, the athletes and the sport as an ambassador. I look forward to working with him in this new chapter of his life.”

Nogueira himself said he had mixed feelings about his retirement:

“I’m sad for leaving but happy with this new job in the UFC. I remember when I met [Junior dos Santos], he was brave in training, and before his UFC debut against the current champion Fabricio Werdum, I told Dana White to watch for his uppercut.

“And that’s how he beat him. I have good eyes for new talent, and I will look for new talents in this new generation.”

Nogueira began his career at the age of 23 in the US but it was in Japan where he established himself as one of the best in the business before the collapse of Pride led to his move to the UFC.

Though he was near the end of his career when he arrived, Nogueira still fought 11 times in the Octagon, winning the interim UFC heavyweight championship with a third-round submission over Tim Sylvia in 2008.

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