Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz – two of the most recognized names in the world of mixed martial arts – have apparently both decided to retire from UFC competition.
McGregor led the way, tweeting this afternoon, "I have decided to retire young. Thanks for the cheese. Catch ya’s later."
Fans reacted with shock and skepticism.
McGregor is known for his sense of humor, and many speculated that the announcement might be his idea of a prank.
Moments later, McGregor’s most recent opponent, Nate Diaz, added to the confusion, tweeting, "I guess my work here is done I’m retiring too."
Diaz defeated McGregor earlier this year, and the two were scheduled for a rematch at UFC 200 in July.
Neither fighter has offered any explanation for his decision, but many are speculating that McGregor was motivated by a recent trauma.
The 27-year-old Irishman was ringside when fellow fighter Joao Carvalho died from injuries sustained during a fight last week.
"To see a young man doing what he loves, competing for a chance at a better life, and then to have it taken away is truly heartbreaking," McGregor wrote on his Facebook page after the fight.
It’s possible that Diaz, 31, was planning to retire after squaring off with McGregor a second time, and has now decided to simply all it a career.
