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SportsCasting
SportsCasting
Garrett Kerman

Kyung-ho Kang Hangs Up the Gloves After His UFC Departure

In a bittersweet announcement that marks the end of an era for South Korean MMA, longtime UFC featherweight Kyung-ho Kang has officially declared his retirement from professional mixed martial arts. After a remarkable 12-year tenure with the world’s premier MMA organization, Kang leaves behind a legacy of grit, determination, and memorable performances that have endeared him to fans across the globe.

A Journey Through the Octagon

Kang’s UFC odyssey began in 2013 when he made his promotional debut in Japan. His introduction to the big leagues was anything but conventional, as his initial loss to Alex Caceres was overturned due to Caceres testing positive for marijuana. This unusual start set the tone for a career that would be defined by resilience and adaptability.

After a rocky start, Kang found his footing in the UFC’s competitive bantamweight division. He embarked on an impressive run, securing six victories in seven fights, including three submissions that showcased his well-rounded skill set. This streak not only established Kang as a formidable contender but also as a fan favorite known for his exciting fighting style.

Throughout his UFC career, Kang amassed a respectable record of 8-5, facing some of the division’s toughest competition. His journey in the Octagon was a testament to the evolution of MMA in South Korea, as he carried the flag for his nation alongside other pioneers like “The Korean Zombie” Chan Sung Jung.

Reflections of a Fighter

In a heartfelt video message posted on Instagram, Kang reflected on his time in the UFC with a mixture of nostalgia and gratitude. “It’s been a long time that I first signed with UFC in 2012 and ended in 2025, but when I look back, it’s gone like a moment,” Kang mused, encapsulating the fleeting nature of a fighter’s career.

The 38-year-old fighter spoke eloquently about the highs and lows of his profession, from the daily grind of training to the exhilaration of competition. “When you sweat every day, you train hard and lose more than 10 kilometers and when you enter a cage that matches your fear, when you hear the cheers of the audience, your fear turns into excitement,” Kang shared, offering fans a glimpse into the emotional rollercoaster of a professional fighter’s life.

Kang’s decision to retire comes on the heels of back-to-back decision losses to John Castaneda and Muin Gafurov. However, these recent setbacks do little to diminish the impact of his career. As he steps away from active competition, Kang leaves with his head held high, stating, “I did my best, so I have no regrets.”

The timing of Kang’s retirement coincides with the end of his UFC contract, allowing him to close this chapter of his life on his own terms. His parting words to fans were filled with appreciation and optimism for the future: “I’m so excited and excited about my life ahead. Please give me a lot of support. I will support you too.”

Kang’s retirement marks the end of an era not just for himself but for the UFC’s bantamweight division. As one of the longest-tenured fighters in his weight class, his departure leaves a void that will be felt by fans and fellow competitors alike. His journey from a young prospect to a seasoned veteran mirrors the growth and development of MMA in South Korea, and his contributions to the sport will be remembered long after his final walk from the Octagon.

As the MMA community bids farewell to Kyung-ho Kang, we’re reminded of the transient nature of athletic careers and the indelible mark that dedicated fighters leave on the sport. Kang’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of South Korean fighters, ensuring that his impact on MMA extends far beyond his own competitive career.

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