With over 40 fights and a championship reign to his credit, Andrei Arlovski made his final appearance for the UFC this past weekend.
Arlovski, who lost to Martin Buday at UFC 303, confirmed that it was the last bout on his contract. UFC president Dana White mentioned the same during the post-fight press conference.
Related: UFC 271: Will This Be The Final Appearance For Andrei Arlovski?
So, knowing all that, did the promotion fail to honor the legacy of Arlovski? He won 23 bouts over two stints with the UFC, competing 42 times in all.
The night included the retirement announcement of Michelle Waterson, along with bouts featuring veterans Cub Swanson and Anthony Smith. And while Arlovski didn’t confirm plans to retire, it would have still been mentioning considering what he has achieved, right?
The 45-year-old is a former one-time heavyweight champion and one-time interim titleholder. He defended each of those titles once and was the first Belarusian champion.
With 23 total wins, Arlovski is tied for second all-time with Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone. His 42 heavyweight fights are the most in the division and second-most overall.
Arlovski spent almost seven hours competing inside the Octagon and owns a heavyweight-record 19 decision bouts. His 1,453 significant strikes landed are at the top.
Among those Arlovski has either bested or faced are Francis Ngannou, Josh Barnett, Alistair Overeem, Stefan Struve, Stipe Miocic, Frank Mir, Fedor Emelianenko and Fabricio Werdum.
Andrei Arlovski Wondering Why Exit From UFC Was Quiet
On social media, Arlovski mentioned his final UFC fight.
“So, Saturday night at UFC 303 wasn’t my night,” Arlovski said. “I didn’t want to finish my journey in the UFC like that. But it is what it is.
“And yes, I’m not (expletive), just wondering how come? So, my chapter in the UFC is closed but my book is not finished yet.”
Read more: UFC Results: All The Fight Results, Highlights From UFC 303
In 2005, Arlovski submitted Tim Sylvia to win the interim heavyweight championship. He was later promoted to champion and knocked out Paul Buentello before losing to Sylvia.
“Will see what’s around the corner,” he added. “it’s more stories to tell. I’m going on vacation for a bit right now with my beautiful family.”
One would have to assume the PFL would be hot on the chase to add Arlovski to the heavyweight division.
