Stefan Struve announced his retirement from mixed martial arts today and it looks like its permanent this time.
“The Skyscraper” (29-13-0), 32, is the tallest fighter in the history of the UFC at 7 feet tall. He initially retired after his last win in February 2019, but came back later on that year in December.
Struve took to Twitter to explain his decision, revealing he was contacted last week for a fight and made the decision then after several months of thinking.
What’s up everyone. I got an announcement to make today. It was a little too long so I had to improvise, you can read more in the attachement. I have decided to retire from professional fighting. Thank you all for the support 🙏🏻❤️ pic.twitter.com/z2eZAALUoP
— Stefan Struve (@StefanStruve) February 15, 2021
The health issues revolve around Struve’s inner ear, which includes vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss which reappeared after his last fight at UFC 254, a TKO loss to Tai Tuivasa in October 2020. This is in addition to his heart issues (enlarged heart, and a biscuspid aortic valve which have been ongoing since he was 24 years old.
Struve struggled after returning in 2019 and leaves the UFC with a single victory in his last six contests. His best run was in 2011 and 2012, when he won four straight, including a victory for current UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic.
