SCOTTISH UFC legend Paul Craig has announced his retirement.
The 37-year-old was competing in his final event at UFC Paris last night.
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The Craigneuk native was knocked out at the end of the first round by opponent Modestas Bukauskas.
With just one second remaining in the round, Bukauskas landed an elbow which drew blood and ended up being the knockout blow.
Craig removed his gloves and placed them on the canvas, before addressing the crowd, who gave him a standing ovation.
He said: “Thank you guys, this is why I do this.
“This sport, the young eat the old and I’m old.
“Thank you for the memories.”
Craig made his name as an entertainer, with just two of his 29 fights ending in decisions.
His record of six wins by submission is the second-most in light-heavyweight history behind Glover Teixeira on seven.
But Craig had won just one of his last eight fights coming into the bout against Bukauskas.
His last victory had been against Andre Muniz back in 2023.
But having recorded victories over current light-heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev and former champion Jamahal Hill, Craig is the most successful Scottish fighter in UFC history.
Heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall posted on Instagram: “Special shoutout to Paul Craig on his retirement, [he] has done things in his career that the majority dream of.”
Craig is a proud Rangers fan, and has spoken in the past of his admiration for Ally McCoist.
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