Artem Lobov has announced his retirement from fighting.
The long-time teammate of Conor McGregor fought out of John Kavanagh's Straight Blast Gym in Dublin and came to prominence during the UFC's Ultimate Fighter Series when the Notorious was a coach.
He lost to Ryan Hall in the Ultimate Fighter and fought six more times in the UFC, winning on two occasions.
Lobov then switched to bare-knuckle boxing, winning two of his four fights under the BKFC banner, including a huge victory over former world champion boxer Paulie Malignaggi in 2019.
In a statement to MMA Fighting, the Russian Hammer said: “It’s true, time to close the career. There’s plenty other options and suggestions to prolong my path, but not fighting.
“In order to succeed, you have to say goodbye and concentrate on other things. Of course, I’ll be with Mahatch and the Parimatch team. All my sponsors are already family for me. I feel this support indeed. So I won’t say goodbye from all fighting activities, but I need to finish my career as a fighter.”
Lobov's friend and McGregor's striking coach Owen Roddy was among those to pay tribute to the Russian.
Sharing a photo on Instagram, Roddy said: "Well pal, I've had the pleasure of training and working with you for many years. I never met a man with bigger heart or determination. You are a true legend of the fight game.
"Congratulations on such an amazing career with so many amazing fights under your belt. You should be very proud of yourself because we all are!
"On to the next chapter. @rushammer thank you for all the wonderful memories."
