Michael Chiesa Retires: A Farewell at Home with Special Meaning
Fighter Michael Chiesa prepares for his final fight, marking the end of a distinguished career in the world of mixed martial arts. Despite feeling that he is still at his best at 38 years old, Chiesa has made the decision to hang up his gloves, largely motivated by the memory of his grandfather. Chiesa (19-7) will face Niko Price on the main card of UFC Fight Night in Seattle. This fight, regardless of the outcome, will be the fighter’s last appearance, who is currently on a three-fight winning streak.Chiesa’s decision to retire is deeply rooted in his family’s experience with his grandfather, Darrell Triber, a local motorsports pioneer. Triber, who died while racing at age 67, was an inspiring figure for Chiesa. Chiesa hasn’t fought since his decision victory over Court McGee in June 2025. Although he became a contender in lightweight and welterweight, he never managed to get a UFC title shot. He acknowledges that fighting at home, on the main card of a UFC event, is probably the biggest platform he’ll have at this stage of his career, making it the perfect time to retire.He promoted motorcycle races. He is in the [Inland Empire] Hall of Fame for high-speed racing. He had a big impact on Evel Knievel’s career. He was my hero growing up, and he died racing his motorcycle.
Michael Chiesa
This is my 22nd fight in the UFC. The number 22 is a very significant number for my family. That was my grandfather’s number of races. That’s why I have the ’22’ tattooed on my chest. I have the ’22’ on my wedding ring. I wear my grandfather’s wedding ring. And then, March 28th [Saturday] is my parents’ anniversary. So the universe is telling me, ‘make this the last one’.
Michael Chiesa
