Former UFC champion Miesha Tate announced her retirement after a loss at UFC on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Tate, who beat Holly Holm for the women's bantamweight title earlier this year, was defeated by Raquel Pennington in a unanimous decision in what she said was her final bout.
"I want to say congratulations to Raquel, I'm really proud of her. She was a member of my team, and I'm excited to see her do so well," Tate said.
"But I'm announcing my retirement, you guys. I love you all so much. I've been doing this for over a decade. Thank you so much for being here. I love this sport forever. It's not my time anymore. It's the future's time."
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Tate finished her fighting career with an 18-7 record. After defeating Holm for the title in March at UFC 196, Tate was knocked out by Amanda Nunes in her first title defense at UFC 200 in July.
But Tate probably will best be remembered for her heated confrontations with Ronda Rousey, starting in Strikeforce and then in UFC. Tate was unable to beat Rousey but eventually won the title against Holm, who had taken it from Rousey.
"I had a lot more to give, but I just couldn't pull it out of myself," Tate said. "It's been a long time, taking a lot of punishment. I love you guys, but this is it for me."
Pennington was once coached by Tate as part of the Ultimate Fighter reality show. She is expected to rise in the rankings after knocking off Tate, the No. 1 contender.
