UFC Trailblazer Retires After 15-Year Run

A storied run ends in Nashville as a pioneer makes a final walk. UFC Nashville brought the chaos fans expected from a Derrick Lewis headliner, with the heavyweight slugger facing off against rising knockout artist Tallison Teixeira in a main event built for fireworks. Lauren Murphy, 41, officially ended her professional career following a hard-fought loss to Eduarda Moura.

UFC Trailblazer Retires After 15-Year Run originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

A storied run ends in Nashville as a pioneer makes a final walk.

UFC Nashville brought the chaos fans expected from a Derrick Lewis headliner, with the heavyweight slugger facing off against rising knockout artist Tallison Teixeira in a main event built for fireworks. But while the top of the card delivered explosive action, the undercard quietly delivered closure—for one of the toughest fighters in the UFC.

Lauren Murphy, 41, officially ended her professional career following a hard-fought loss to Eduarda Moura. The unanimous decision marked her final bout in the UFC, capping off a 15-year run defined by grit, honesty, and perseverance.

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Known as one of the original trailblazers of women’s MMA, Murphy walked away with a resume that includes a title challenge against Valentina Shevchenko and the distinction of being Invicta FC’s first-ever bantamweight champion.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - JULY 12: Lauren Murphy prepares to face Eduarda Moura of Brazil in a flyweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Bridgestone Arena on July 12, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)

In her post-fight interview, Murphy kept it real in the only way she knows how.
‘There’s a lot of people to thank, but first and foremost, I want to fcking thank me… for being a pioneer for women in this sport… At 41 years old, I’m still in here fcking these girls up, man.’

Murphy’s longevity—having debuted in 2010 and competed in both bantamweight and flyweight divisions—earned her respect across the MMA world. A fan favorite for her authenticity and toughness, she connected with audiences who appreciated her unfiltered honesty and relentless spirit.

Signed by Dana White and the UFC in 2014, she carved out a long-lasting presence inside the Octagon. She also holds a notable victory over former UFC champion Miesha Tate, adding another respected name to her resume.

As she steps into life beyond fighting, whether it's coaching, mentoring, or media work, Lauren Murphy leaves behind a blueprint—not just for how to survive in the UFC, but how to do it your way.

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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 13, 2025, where it first appeared.

Category: General Sports