.png)
Antonina Shevchenko Announces Retirement from MMA: A Tribute to a Storied Career
The mixed martial arts (MMA) community bids farewell to one of its distinguished athletes, Antonina Shevchenko, who has officially announced her retirement from professional competition. Known for her technical prowess and dedication, Shevchenko leaves behind a legacy that has significantly impacted the sport.
A Journey Through Martial Arts
Antonina's martial arts journey began at the tender age of seven under the guidance of her mother, Elena Shevchenko, a 3rd dan black belt in taekwondo. This early start laid the foundation for a career spanning over three decades, during which she achieved a 3rd dan black belt in Taekwondo, secured 11 world champion titles across Muay Thai, kickboxing, and MMA, and competed in over 400 amateur and professional bouts.
Transition to Mixed Martial Arts
After an illustrious career in Muay Thai and kickboxing, Antonina transitioned to MMA, making her professional debut in 2002. Following a hiatus, she returned to the sport in 2017, amassing a record that led her to Dana White's Contender Series in 2018. Her performance there earned her a spot in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where she competed in the flyweight division.
UFC Tenure and Notable Achievements
During her UFC tenure, Shevchenko faced formidable opponents, securing victories over fighters like Ji Yeon Kim and Lucie Pudilová. Her bout against Pudilová earned her the Fight of the Night bonus, highlighting her exceptional skill and tenacity. She concluded her UFC career with a balanced record of 4-4, demonstrating resilience and sportsmanship throughout.
A New Chapter: Aviation
In September 2024, Antonina embraced motherhood, welcoming her son into the world. Alongside this personal milestone, she has been pursuing a career in aviation. Her passion for flying has been evident, and she now aims to focus on this new path, aspiring to become a professional pilot.
Gratitude and Farewell
In her retirement announcement, Shevchenko expressed heartfelt gratitude:
"I didn’t have the opportunity to leave my gloves in the octagon by tradition; I didn’t think my fight in UFC in 2022 would be the last. 'I am leaving my gloves' in this post. 30 years in sport... This is how I finish my career in professional sport." She also extended thanks to the UFC, Dana White, and her fans for their unwavering support throughout her journey.
A Salute from FIGHT.TV
At FIGHT.TV, we honor Antonina Shevchenko's remarkable contributions to the world of combat sports. Her dedication, skill, and pioneering spirit have left an indelible mark on MMA and inspired countless athletes. As she soars into this new chapter of her life, we extend our deepest gratitude and best wishes for her future endeavors.
For a glimpse into Antonina's fighting prowess, here's a highlight reel showcasing her skills: