Lauren Murphy Retires from Professional MMA

News Summary

Lauren Murphy, a leading figure in women’s mixed martial arts, has announced her retirement following a unanimous loss to Eduarda Moura. After a decade-long career, marked by impressive victories and notable challenges, Murphy’s retirement was symbolized by her placing her gloves on the canvas. Known for her resilience and contributions to women’s fighting, she leaves behind an impactful legacy in the sport.

Nashville, Tennessee – Lauren Murphy, a prominent figure in women’s mixed martial arts (MMA), announced her retirement from professional fighting on July 12, 2025, following a unanimous decision loss to Eduarda Moura at UFC Nashville. The bout, held at the Bridgestone Arena, concluded with all judges scoring the fight 29-28 in favor of Moura.

After the fight, Murphy made a significant gesture to mark her retirement by placing her gloves on the canvas, a traditional symbol of a fighter’s retirement from the sport. This decision comes as Murphy concludes a commendable career that has spanned over a decade, marked by her resilience and contributions to the sport.

Murphy, 41, began her professional MMA journey back in 2010 and made her UFC debut in 2013. She gained a foothold in the sport when she captured the vacant Invicta bantamweight title by defeating Miriam Nakamoto, showcasing her potential early in her career. However, Murphy faced challenges in her initial UFC outings, suffering consecutive losses that tested her determination.

Despite these setbacks, she rebounded impressively between 2019 and 2021, achieving a five-fight win streak that led her to her first title shot against Valentina Shevchenko at UFC 266 in September 2021. Although Murphy was unsuccessful in her pursuit of the flyweight championship, losing by fourth-round TKO, the fight solidified her status as a top competitor in the division.

In 2022, she recorded a notable victory over former champion Miesha Tate, but her career faced difficulties afterward, as she experienced two consecutive defeats. Her most recent loss to Moura and a previous setback against Jessica Andrade in January 2023 ultimately prompted her decision to retire.

Throughout her time in the octagon, Murphy was recognized for her dedication and her role as a trailblazer for women in MMA. She reflected on her career achievements and her efforts to elevate women’s fighting. To stay connected to the sport, Murphy has completed the necessary judge training in Texas, indicating her intention to continue contributing to MMA in a different capacity.

With an overall UFC record of 8-6, Lauren Murphy leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, fighting against some of the toughest opponents in the sport. Her retirement marks the end of an era for a fighter who has inspired many in the realm of women’s MMA.

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• Cageside Press
• MMA Junkie
• MMA Mania
• BJ Penn
• Sherdog