Pat Barry Retires from MMA, Leaves Door Open for Kickboxing Return
After a 12-fight UFC career, heavyweight Pat Barry announced on Tuesday that he’s retiring from mixed martial arts.
Barry (8-7) made his MMA debut in May 2008 after an 18-6-1 kickboxing career. Three fights and three knockouts later, he was in the UFC. He defeated Dan Evensen by technical knockout due to leg kicks at UFC 92 and quickly became a fan favorite. He wouldn’t put together back-to-back wins again.
In his time with the UFC, Barry amassed a 5-7 record and was defeated in his last two outings by knockout.
Barry’s manager, Brian Bulter, released a statement on Tuesday. While the 34-year-old fighter is walking away from MMA, he may not be leaving combat sports.
“After long discussions with our client Pat Barry over the recent weeks, he has come to the decision that he will be taking an indefinite leave from competing in MMA. The UFC and Zuffa have been very gracious in releasing him from his contract and Pat is very grateful for everything they have done for him and his career,” read the statement.
“Over the past few fights I’ve just had this sinking feeling in my stomach whenever I have stepped into the Octagon and I realize, I DONT WANT TO WRESTLE. Not saying I will never do MMA again, but right now I just want to hit people. MMA and the UFC have been great to me and I will always support the company and the sport. I want to thank all my fans, sponsors and haters for being with me on this journey and I look forward to what future holds,” said Barry in the release.
“Pat and I have talked about this for a while now and with recent changes in the landscape of combat sports, he wants to explore some options and try to get back to his roots,” stated Butler.
“He really wants to go back to kickboxing and get his fire back. His entire demeanor changes when we talk about him in a kickboxing match. He keeps saying, ‘Brian, you have never seen “kickboxing Pat!”‘ By that he means his motivation to train will be at a level that is hasn't been at since I started managing his MMA career.
“He hasn't kickboxed in over five years, so we are not being unrealistic about his return to the ring. Maybe we'll fight locally, maybe we wont. I'm gonna let him decompress now and we'll be making an announcement real soon.”
