MMA News Forums - Tom DeBlass announces retirement following UFC on FUEL TV 6 loss to Riki Fukuda

Tom DeBlass announces retirement following UFC on FUEL TV 6 loss to Riki Fukuda

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In a somewhat surprising move, UFC middleweight Tom DeBlass is retiring from fighting.

The fighter late Tuesday made the announcement on his Facebook page. The 30-year-old said he came to the decision after discussions with his family and coaches.

DeBlass (7-2 MMA, 0-2 UFC) this past Saturday dropped a unanimous decision to Riki Fukuda (19-6 MMA, 2-2 UFC) at UFC on FUEL TV 6 in Macau.

DeBlass, a New Jersey native and resident, started his career 7-0 and won the heavyweight title and light heavyweight title for the New Jersey-based Ring of Combat promotion before getting the call to fight in the UFC.

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"After a lot of talk with my family and coaches, I have decided to retire from fighting and focus on my family, my academy and helping my students to achieve their goals," DeBlass stated on his Facebook page. "I have had the opportunity to win the Pan American games, the No Gi World Championships, and National Championships, the Abu Dhabi trials and compete in Abu Dhabi. I have competed all over the world at 30 years old. I fought for Ring of Combat and won their titles. I made it to UFC in a year and a half."

But DeBlass went on to say that he believes he is best served remaining in the sport, but helping other fighters at his jiu-jitsu academy.

"I know I am nowhere near my prime, however I feel my time is better spent elsewhere," he stated. "At this time I feel it's best for me to give my time to others, and spend more time with my family. The drive to keep fighting is not there any longer. I have an amazing academy and feel my students need my full attention. Maybe I will return to jiu-jitsu competition. Thanks to everyone for the support. It's been an awesome ride. God bless."

Tom DeBlass announces retirement following UFC on FUEL TV 6 loss to Riki Fukuda | MMAjunkie.com