In a poignant moment for the world of mixed martial arts, UFC veteran Lauren Murphy has announced her retirement following a unanimous decision loss to Eduarda Moura at UFC Fight Night on July 12, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee. At 41 years old, Murphy left her gloves in the Octagon, a powerful symbol of her departure from the sport she has dedicated over a decade of her life to.
During her emotional farewell, Murphy addressed the crowd, reflecting on her journey in the UFC. “I came out here and I gave it everything I have. I’ve been in the UFC for 10 years, I’ve been fighting for 15,” she stated. “I wanted to come out and just give it my all one more time, hear the cheers of the crowd and walk out with the American flag. I love all of you guys so much.” Murphy also took a moment to express gratitude for her own perseverance, acknowledging her role as a pioneer for women in the sport.
A Trailblazer in Women’s MMA
Murphy’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Entering the UFC in 2013 after winning the vacant Invicta bantamweight title, she faced challenges early on, including back-to-back losses. However, her resilience shone through as she embarked on a five-fight win streak from 2019 to 2021, which propelled her to a title shot against Valentina Shevchenko at UFC 266 in September 2021. Although she lost via fourth-round TKO, the opportunity marked a significant moment in her career.
Murphy’s notable victories, including a unanimous decision win over fellow MMA icon Miesha Tate in 2022, showcased her tenacity and skill. Her final bouts, however, did not yield the desired outcomes, culminating in defeats to Jessica Andrade in January 2023 and the recent loss to Moura.
Legacy and Future Endeavors
Despite not capturing a UFC title, Murphy’s impact on the sport is undeniable. Her longevity and willingness to face the toughest opponents have solidified her status as a respected figure in women’s MMA. According to Tristen Critchfield of Sherdog, Murphy’s legacy is characterized by her trailblazing efforts and her remarkable journey through the UFC landscape, making her one of the standout fighters of her generation.
As she transitions to new endeavors, Murphy’s extensive knowledge of the sport and engaging personality suggest that she could excel as an analyst or commentator. The mixed martial arts community will undoubtedly continue to support her as she embarks on this next chapter following a distinguished career.
