Kaitlin Young retires from combat sports competition
Kaitlin Young, 37, has announced her retirement from combat sports competition.
Known as a Muay Thai striker, “The Striking Viking” Young is widely considered a pioneer of women’s mixed martial arts.
Young, who last competed in the PFL women’s lightweight tournament in July 2022 against Kayla Harrison, leaves the sport with a pro MMA record of 12-13-1.
“We don’t always have the privilege of knowing which walk to the cage will be our last but I had a pretty good idea,” her Facebook post reads.
“After 15 years as a professional fighter, I decided to hang them up. I always thought it would be harder to walk away when the time came but it’s been pretty easy. I was ready.
I’d like to send a special thank you to @kronphetkpmuaythai @ishmaelbentley and @punnarinkoy 🙏 I’ve learned from too many great teachers to name but the development under their instruction has been unmatched.
I’ll still be around 🌎You can find me coaching or teaching seminars out of my gym @strikinginstitute 👊and back behind the desk working with @shanknapp @shanknapp @inShannon Knapp
I can’t thank you all enoShannon KnappurInvicta Fighting Championshipsn my career🥰 I wouldn’t trade my time in it for the world, nor the friends, adventures and life lessons gained along the way. Should you find yourself gifted with a fighter’s heart, allow yourself the courage to follow it💗🇺🇸.”
Young rose to fame after winning the one-night 2007 HOOKnSHOOT Women’s Grand Prix with three knockouts in a combined time of just 1:45. On that night she would defeat future UFC women’s bantamweight champion Miesha Tate, Patti Lee, and Suzy Smith.
Young has also fought the likes of Gina Carano, Julie Kedzie, Liz Carmouche, Leslie Smith, Lauren Murphy, Pam Sorenson, Cindy Dandois, Julia Budd, and more. She truly embodied the warrior spirit, taking on all challengers.
Aside from her time as a professional fighter, Young also worked as a matchmaker for various promotions including Invicta FC. When not matchmaking, Young is coaching young athletes for competition.
Congratulations on your retirement Kaitlin Young.
