Cheyanne Vlismas, also known as The Warrior Princess, made a decision that surprised many in the MMA world. Just two days before her 30th birthday, this UFC veteran announced her retirement from professional fighting. While retirement news isn’t uncommon in sports, what made Vlismas’ announcement stand out was the heartfelt reason behind it.
In an emotional Instagram post, Vlismas shared her inner conflict with her fans and followers. She expressed both sadness and conviction in her words:
“As of today I am officially retired. This decision comes with a lot of heartbreak. But this is something that I need to do.”
This raw honesty struck a chord with many who followed her career.
Vlismas revealed that the primary motivation for stepping away from the octagon was her desire to prioritize her young children. She explained,
“After having my second child, my time is very limited. I am unable to give 100% to my training without giving less of myself to my babies.”
It was a poignant moment when she acknowledged the struggle between pursuing her passion for fighting and being present for her family.
The fighter’s message resonated beyond just personal sacrifice; it delved into generational impact and setting an example for her kids.
“This decision comes as I am choosing to be the parent that I wish I always had growing up,”
she confessed. This introspective look at parenthood and selflessness touched upon universal themes of love and sacrifice.
While some might see Vlismas’ retirement as premature or wonder about a potential comeback, she made it clear that family came first. Reflecting on the dilemma she faced, she mused about the possibility of leaving her children for extended periods during training camps:
“I simply cannot do so.”
Her resolve underlined a mother’s unwavering commitment to putting her kids above all else.
Despite not achieving mainstream fame like some UFC stars, Cheyanne Vlismas left an indelible mark during her tenure in the promotion. Her rise coincided with challenging times globally when sports faced unprecedented disruptions due to the pandemic. It was within this chaos that she showcased moments of brilliance inside the octagon.
From earning a contract with the UFC after an impressive win on Dana White’s Contender Series to securing victories against tough opponents like Gloria de Paula and Mallory Martin, Vlismas exhibited skill and determination throughout her career. Her ability to bounce back from setbacks and deliver thrilling performances earned respect from fans and peers alike.
One particular highlight was Vlismas’ Performance of the Night bonus-winning knockout against de Paula—a sequence that demonstrated both technique and tenacity on Vlismas’ part. Such displays of skill underscored why she gained recognition within MMA circles despite not reaching championship levels.
As experts weigh in on Vlismas’ departure from professional fighting, they acknowledge both the loss to the sport and commendable prioritization of personal values over athletic pursuits.
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