Ross “The Real Deal” Pearson Retires from MMA
On Monday, Ross Pearson stated on his Instagram that he is retiring from the sport he has loved since making his professional debut 15 years ago.
“The Real Deal” Pearson (20-16 12-13 UFC) endured a very up and down career since joining the UFC but consistently displayed his heart leaving everything in the cage everytime.
Pearson’s UFC journey began back in 2009, successfully becoming the second Englishman to hold The Ultimate Fighter winner’s trophy, defeating Andre Winner in the finale. What he didn’t know was that there would be a bumpy road laid out ahead of him.
On paper, a 12-13 UFC record would leave many wondering why this fighter is still on the roster?
Rarely would you see a dull fight Pearson was participating in, consistently applying forward pressure, throwing heavy shots, constantly searching for the knockout. Pearson never avoided any opponent put in front of him, happily fighting ‘anyone, anywhere.’ Dana White always states how he loves fighters who come to fight and Pearson displays exactly this.
Also, Pearson faced some top level competition during his time with the UFC. He racked up notable wins against Dennis Siver, Junior Assunção and Paul Felder, however, some of the losses he obtained came at a very close call from the judges.
Pearson made it possible that notable losses can exist. He endured close spilt decision matchups versus Diego “The Nightmare” Sanchez, Stevie Ray and most impressively against current top contender Edson Barboza. Pearson’s performances displayed that he belonged in the UFC and should never be underestimated.
Retiring now, I feel, is a very intelligent decision by the Englishman.
With only one win in his previous seven bouts, a unanimous decision over Mizuto Hirota at UFC 221, Pearson has felt it’s time to hang up his 4oz gloves for good.
