Joe Solecki Announces Retirement from MMA at Age 31

After a decade-long journey in mixed martial arts, UFC lightweight Joe Solecki has officially announced his retirement from professional competition. The 31-year-old fighter, known for his grappling prowess and relentless work ethic, shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram post on February 17, 2025. Solecki steps away from the sport with a professional record of 13-6, including a 5-4 stint in the UFC.

‼️ Joe Solecki (13-6, 5-4 UFC) has officially retired from MMA

“I started this endeavor as a kid with a dream of making it to the UFC.

Despite falling short at time, I ‘lived my movie'”. pic.twitter.com/YvvLWTGjTG

— Garrett Kerman (@FightAnalystLLC) February 17, 2025

A Career Defined by Perseverance and Skill

Joe Solecki’s MMA career began with humble origins in the regional circuit before blossoming into a noteworthy run at the highest level of the sport. Hailing from Wenonah, New Jersey, Solecki first made waves as an amateur fighter with an undefeated record of 5-0. He transitioned to the professional ranks in 2016, quickly establishing himself as a submission specialist. His early victories included multiple first-round finishes via rear-naked choke, showcasing his technical mastery on the ground.

Solecki’s big break came in 2019 when he earned a UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series by submitting James Wallace in the first round. He carried that momentum into his UFC debut later that year, defeating veteran Matt Wiman via unanimous decision. Over the next few years, Solecki built an impressive resume, including wins over Austin Hubbard and UFC legend Jim Miller. His ability to control fights with his grappling and composure made him a standout in the lightweight division.

ANOTHER FINISH!!! @JoeSolecki gets the 4️⃣th finish in 5️⃣bouts! #DWCS pic.twitter.com/qUJqQwlZ2Z

— UFC (@ufc) July 10, 2019

However, Solecki faced challenges as he climbed higher in the competitive ranks. After starting his UFC career with five wins in six fights, he endured a tough stretch of three consecutive losses to Drakkar Klose, Grant Dawson, and Nurullo Aliev. His final bout took place on January 11, 2025, where he lost to Aliev via unanimous decision. Despite these setbacks, Solecki’s career remains a testament to resilience and dedication.

Reflecting on Retirement and Future Plans

In his retirement announcement, Solecki expressed gratitude for the journey MMA afforded him. “Today, after chasing this dream for 10 years, I am officially retiring from the sport of MMA,” he wrote. He reflected on how his career allowed him to grow not only as an athlete but also as a husband, father, and person of faith. Solecki described his time in MMA as “living my movie,” filled with both triumphs and adversities that shaped him into who he is today.

While stepping away from professional fighting, Solecki emphasized that he would remain close to the sport. He plans to dedicate himself to coaching and training the next generation of fighters at Gym-O, where he has been actively involved throughout his career. Additionally, fans may still see him competing in grappling events—a discipline where he has consistently excelled.

Solecki’s retirement comes at a time when fighters are increasingly prioritizing their long-term health and personal goals over extending their careers unnecessarily. At just 31 years old, Solecki leaves behind a legacy of hard work and integrity while opening a new chapter focused on mentorship and family life.

As one of MMA’s most respected competitors transitions out of active competition, his impact on the sport will undoubtedly endure through those he trains and inspires. Joe Solecki may no longer be fighting under the bright lights of the UFC, but his story serves as a reminder of what it means to chase a dream with passion and purpose.