Jared Gooden announces retirement from MMA after Shogun Fights loss

UFC veteran Jared Gooden retires from mixed martial arts after 10-year career.

Jared Gooden warms up before his fight during UFC Fight Night at UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 12, 2024. Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Jared Gooden, a seasoned veteran of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), has officially announced his retirement from mixed martial arts (MMA). The decision comes after his recent defeat to Mahamed Aly at Shogun Fights, marking the end of his decade-long career in professional fighting.

“I want to take this time to let everyone know that my time has come. I will be leaving this sport,” Gooden wrote on his personal X account, as monitored in Jakarta on Wednesday.

The 31-year-old American fighter, who competed in 34 professional bouts, decided to hang up his gloves after his latest fight in Hanover, United States, on Saturday, March 29. His decision to step away from the sport stems from a desire to focus on raising his daughter while exploring new career opportunities.

"I'm going to hang up my gloves for now, and I can't wait to tell you guys what I'm going to do next with my life," Gooden added, hinting at future endeavors beyond the octagon.

A decade of competition in MMA

Gooden’s professional fighting journey spanned 10 years, during which he competed at the highest levels, including multiple stints in the UFC. Despite his passion for the sport, the welterweight fighter admitted that his love for fighting had diminished over time.

"I no longer have the love and passion for fighting that I had when I was a young fighter," he shared in his farewell statement.

Nicknamed "Nite Train," Gooden made his UFC welterweight debut in 2020, stepping into the octagon against Alan Jouban at UFC 255. Though he lost that bout, he continued to push forward in his career, securing a first-round knockout victory over Niklas Stolze in one of his next three fights.

However, Gooden’s tenure in the UFC was short-lived. After leaving the promotion in 2021, he returned to the octagon in 2023, hoping to reestablish himself in the welterweight division. Unfortunately, he managed just one win in three fights, securing a second-round submission over Wellington Turman before returning to regional promotions.

Gooden’s legacy and future plans

Despite not achieving long-term success in the UFC, Gooden built a reputation as a gritty and determined fighter. His career was defined by resilience, having competed against some of the most skilled athletes in the sport.

While Gooden has not provided specifics about his next steps, his announcement suggests he is ready for a new chapter. His decision to prioritize his family and personal growth marks a turning point, and fans will be eager to see what he pursues next.

With 34 fights under his belt, Gooden leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and passion. Though his MMA journey has come to an end, his impact on the sport and those who followed his career will not be forgotten.