Ivan Salaverry Retires from Competition

Middleweight Ivan Salaverry, a UFC veteran known for his unorthodox style and quirky post fight victory celebrations, has permanently retired from professional competition.

The 37 year old fighter made the decision a month after losing to Rousimar Palhares at UFC 84 "Ill Will" in Vegas. Ivan was pretty much dominated from the beginning of the fight, finally succumbing to an armbar almost halfway through the first round.

With a record of 12-7, Salaverry had lost three out of his last four bouts. His bout with Palhares was also his last fight under contract with Zuffa.

Ivan even made it known before hand that the outcome of the fight would have a big impact on his future as a pro.

Ivan explained his reasoning for the big move during an interview with Sherdog.com.

"Basically, I am just not prioritizing fighting anymore," Salaverry told Sherdog.com. "Even though I love fighting and I had a great run and I enjoyed it, I’ve transitioned to other things. There are quite a few variables as to why I stepped away and not just one. I’m older now; I’m 37 and not 27. I also have some injuries that are just not recovering, too. And within that scope, I have my school and my two kids. Fighting is not just a priority anymore."

While Salaverry won’t be competing inside the cage anymore, you will still be able to find the Seattle father rolling on the mats with his students at his personal gym in downtown Seattle.

"The last few years have definitely changed me with being a father and running my gym," said Salaverry. "It’s given me an entirely different perspective as to how I look at MMA now. I know I can help other fighters because I know so much more now, but it’s very hard to find out where or how to start. I will at least have more time now that I’m not going to be fighting and I think I can make a difference."

For more information on Salaverry’s Seattle gym, visit IvanSalaverry.net.