Frank Mir was on the losing end of the UFC Heavyweight championship last night, but it wasn’t from a lack of effort. He was simply outgunned by the more well-rounded, athletic fighter.
Mir has been a mainstay in the UFC since 2001, which is a long time for any fighter. In that time he has faced some of the best heavyweights in the history of the sport.
At this point in his career, it is doubtful that Mir will ever receive a title shot again. The former champion has had his fair share at attempts, and in his last three title fights he has failed to gain the strap.
He lost a title unification bout against Brock Lesnar, he failed to earn the interim title against Shane Carwin and last night he lost the championship bout against dos Santos.
With the loss, should Frank Mir consider retirement? It isn’t a crazy idea, as he is an 11-year veteran of the sport. 11 years does not seem long, but in a sport where injuries are abundant and training is year round, a heavy toll is taken on the body.
Mir has made his money, he has had his glory and earned his fame. Maybe his future is in training future stars, as Mir would make a fantastic jiu-jitsu coach at any gym. He could even just be a full-on MMA coach.
Mir has nothing left to prove. He is the first man to ever knockout Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and the only person to ever submit him. He has tapped out Brock Lesnar, knocked out Mirko Cro Cop and snapped Tim Sylvia’s arm.
Let’s not forget, Mir had a motorcycle accident earlier in his career that almost put an end to his competitive MMA career. That could begin to take its toll as well, even though Mir is just 33 years old.
In my opinion, I think Mir has a few fights left in him. But at this point, retirement isn’t a bad option. He could still be involved with the UFC without taking the damage to his body.
Hopefully, we see Mir a few more times in the Octagon, as he is a fantastic competitor. If not, a salute is in order to one of the greatest heavyweights ever.
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