As with all UFC events, we are always treated to some amazing performances and knockouts. Similarly, UFC Kansas City was no different, but it brought with it a double retirement as well.
Zak Cummings took on Ed Herman in a light heavyweight bout in the preliminary card. Following the bout, both fighters decided to put an end to their lengthy tenures and call it a career. Despite Cummings being the winner on the night, both fighters took to the mic and laid down their gloves in the center of the Octagon.
What a way to go out! 🙌
In front of his hometown crowd, @ZakCummings calls it quits on a great MMA career #UFCKansasCity pic.twitter.com/tTe3lv3PZA
— UFC (@ufc) April 16, 2023
Thank you to the Short Fuse 🙌@EdHermanUFC announces his retirement after a hard fought battle at #UFCKansasCity! pic.twitter.com/2Ku0obuzvM
— UFC (@ufc) April 16, 2023
Coming into the fight, Cummings, much like Jorge Masvidal last week did hint that it could be the end of the line for him. Just as he hinted, Cummings, 38, chose to end his 16-year career in his hometown of Kansas City, Missouri. “I can’t think of a better way to go out than in front of this crowd, in front of all you guys”.
Similarly, Ed Herman, 42, also took the mic to share his thoughts and feelings. “It’s been a hell of a career and I think I’m going to hang them up here in this cage in Kansas City.” Herman, who has often been complimented for his durability and endurance, called time on his 20-year career after the fight. Notably, Herman’s time with the promotion dates back to 2006, making him one of the longest-serving fighters on the roster.
UFC Kansas City: Zak Cummings and Ed Herman career and record
On the night, both fighters had a heavy back and forth, with Cummings securing the win. Securing a KO/TKO victory, Cummings retired with victories in three divisions. As such, it is a notable feat, as many fighters often stick to one division only. In Cummings’ first fight since August 2020, he retired having fought at welterweight, middleweight, and now light heavyweight.
Whilst Cummings retires with a UFC record of 10 wins and 4 losses, Ed Herman is retiring with a UFC record of 13 wins, 12 losses, and 1 NC. Moreover, Herman has a record of 4-4 at light heavyweight, having fought at 185 for the majority of his career. Notable fights during his tenure include Demian Maia (2008), Jake Shields (2012), Jacare Souza (2013), Derek Brunson (2015), and Nikita Krylov (2016).
An incredible moment. We just witnessed a double retirement at #UFCKansasCity!
THANK YOU and congratulations to@ZakCummings and @EdHermanUFC on their great careers 👏 #UFCKansasCity pic.twitter.com/PFhIxMLL6M
— UFC (@ufc) April 16, 2023
On the other hand, Cummings’ fights include names like Gunnar Nelson, Santiago Ponzinibbio, Trevin Giles, and Alessio Di Chirico. Moreover, Zak, still had one fight left on his contract but chose to bow out in his hometown, surrounded by his friends and family. During his post-fight press conference, Cummings was joined by his daughter, making for a rather wholesome moment.
Similarly, Herman who had brought his family with him, let his kids know he was okay, whilst announcing his retirement. After thanking the UFC and the fans for the support, Herman took his leave, joined by Cummings in what will be a moment remembered in UFC history. After all, it is not something you witness every day.
