One of women’s MMA pioneers Marion Reneau has released a statement following her TKO loss to former champ Miesha Tate.
On the heels of fight week, it was clear that Marion Reneau intended for this to be her last fight in the UFC. The bantamweight will leave behind a storied career, one filled with tenacity and toughness and of course, defying odds. The 46-year competed in an astounding 13-fights in the organization, and while her record may not tell the full story, Reneau’s longevity in the sport of MMA is nothing short of extraordinary.
Marion Reneau & Her Last Stand Against Miesha Tate
As a former bantamweight champion, Tate is a household name among MMA hardcore fans. However, the bantamweight’s passion waned roughly five years ago when she lost to the ‘GOAT’ Amanda Nunes and then dropped a unanimous decision loss to former title challenger Raquel Pennington.
The two met at a frenetic pace at the UFC Vegas 31 co-main event. It seemed the cage experience of Reneau was getting the better of Tate while the fight was standing. However, each fighter had their moments on the feet respectively. Steadily, the plan of “Cupcake” came together beautifully and her chain takedowns combined with heavy top pressure was the perfect recipe to dispatch a tough Reneau.
Reneau’s Statement Following Retirement Loss
“We started this together and we’re going to finish this together. ” ~Xavier I’ll try and keep this short! Thank you again @danawhite for this opportunity. You have changed the life of my family and friends for the better. To my manager Dave @mmagold_management_ you kept it real! You ARE the best in the game! @jim_west_gold You walked into my life when there was a HUGE transition going on and that never derailed your intentions to be a great mentor and friend and coach! @coach.mando You put your life on hold to help me follow this dream. You are my one TRUE King. No matter what, you were there at EVERY last road work training and more. Rain, shine, hail, fire…we went through the strom head on. I love you! @xcraddockx don’t think for one second you have gotten rid of me yet. But thank you for being REAL. A great coach and forever friend (you’re stuck with me bruh) @diego__orozco You are my DAY 1 PARTNER. My family. Thank you. @coachperz You are an inspiration. You have inspired me with your words and your actions. And to all my sparring partners, friends, family and fans who MADE THIS AN EXPERIENCE I WILL TELL FOR YEARS TO COME.. you are all loved! THANK YOU
TRIFECTA MMA… let’s do it big!🇺🇲🇧🇿 #HereWeCome” Marion Reneau posted on Instagram.
In 2015 Reneau took out former strawweight champion Jéssica Andrade with a triangle choke, so her skill level was never in question while competing under the UFC banner, it was simply a matter of blending all of her tools together. Reneau will undoubtedly leave a legacy filled with happy moments of violence.
AllAccessMMA wishes Marion Reneau a happy and healthy retirement!
