Aussie star's shock retirement call after UFC defeat

Australian star Tyson Pedro has announced his shock retirement from the UFC after losing to Vitor Petrino on Sunday morning (AEDT).

The 32-year-old, who scored a brutal knockout win last year in Sydney, was on the wrong end of a unanimous decision verdict in Las Vegas in a three-round bout.

Petrino entered the clash with an undefeated record and kept that streak alive, while Pedro's career record dropped to 10-5 after failing to overcome the Brazilian.

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But in a stunning twist in his post-fight interview, the Penrith product revealed his time in the sport had now come to an end.

"I didn't want to take away from his win – I had a bit of a different plan," Pedro said.

"Thank you to all the fans, I want to say a huge thank you to the UFC for everything they've done on this journey, and especially thanks to my team.

"It's been amazing, but it's always been my intention to show my daughter that as long as you work your arse off, you can do anything you can dream of. I think my dreams have just changed at this point and that's it for me in the UFC.

"I don't think it's goodbye – just see you later. Until then, thanks, everyone."

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Pedro burst onto the scene in the light-heavyweight division several years ago and looked destined for championship contention, but a devastating injury saw him sidelined for over three years.

Speaking to Wide World Of Sports earlier this week, Pedro explained the setbacks faced earlier in his career have changed his outlook inside and outside the cage, which has seen him start his own business DrinkWest, as well as join BSC as an ambassador.

"As bad as that injury and that time was, it was meant to be," he said.

"You think it's the worst time of your life, but it's not until afterwards that you get to look back and realise it was supposed to happen.

"I've had a lot of friends that have retired from rugby league and fighting – it's always the same story.

"We have a very short lifespan in the game and just making sure that I'm aligning myself with the right companies and working on myself for future ventures."