AJ Cunningham’s UFC career cut short by injury as he retires at 31 years old

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AJ Cunningham took to social media to share a video confirming the end of his career.

Recently, several fighters have been released from the UFC roster, each for their own reasons.

Javid Basharat reflected on his time in the bantamweight division, saying he is proud of what he achieved during his 4-2 run.

Another fighter from the same weight class is leaving as well, but under very different circumstances.

While Basharat’s departure came after his contract was not renewed, another athlete had no choice due to health concerns.

AJ Cunningham hits back at critics while announcing his retirement

After a loss on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2023, AJ Cunningham earned another shot with the UFC the following year, thanks to a rebound win.

Taking a fight against L’udovit Klein on short notice was always going to be tough, but even though it ended in a first-round knockout, it helped get his foot in the door.

Cunningham later dropped down two divisions after facing Klein at lightweight but still could not secure his first victory inside the Octagon.

He has now explained the reason for his absence in a video posted on social media, following his last fight, a unanimous decision defeat to Su Young Ku in March of last year.

The 31-year-old confirmed that he is stepping away from MMA due to an injury he has not been able to recover from. He broke the news in a video posted online.

Cunningham explained: “Hey guys, it’s with a great deal of sadness that I will be announcing my retirement from the UFC and the sport of MMA overall.

“I ruptured a disc in my back back in August and unfortunately, it has not healed properly where I can compete or even train at the level I need to to win fights. I’m grateful for everything. I’m grateful that I was able to make the walk 31 times with my amateur and pro career combined.”

He thanked Dana White and the UFC for giving him those chances but spoke openly about how disappointed he was not getting a win in either of his two appearances. His message then shifted toward those who try to tell him how he should act or what he should say.

“I’m gonna be me, man, until the end. God bless you all, take care and I’ll keep you updated on what comes next,” AJ concluded.

Controversial social media posts dominated AJ Cunningham’s time in the UFC

The final moments of AJ Cunningham’s retirement video probably captured what many fans will remember most about his stint with the UFC.

The initial emotional message delivered to his supporters quickly shifted: he was then seen wearing a Burger King crown and laughing at those who attempted to shame him for his previous remarks.

Cunningham took down his Instagram account last year after facing backlash over some highly controversial posts.

It got to a point where people were more aware of his online behaviour than anything he accomplished during his brief run in the promotion, which ended without a victory.