It’s a rarity that an athlete goes out on top; typically the competitive spirit keeps them in the game one too many. Heading into his UFC on FX bout with Eric Schafer, Jorge Rivera made it known that this would be his last MMA fight. After 29 professional bouts, Rivera had decided to hang them up and put it all on the line for the fans in Nashville, Tennessee.

Rivera’s final bout was the classic striker versus grappler matchup against the Brazilian black belt Schafer. Things started out a bit scary for Rivera as Schafer was able to take him down with ease but the veteran was able to get back up. After dropping the opening round Rivera came out the fresher fighter and put on a story book ending that would’ve made even Chris Lytle happy. Rivera stuffed a takedown attempt from Schafer to open the round and was able to achieve top position for his efforts. From there he was able to work his hands and force Schafer to turtle up and give the referee no choice but stop the fight.

In his 15th and final fight inside the Octagon, Rivera improved his UFC record to 8-7 and goes out on top with the walk off win. In an emotional post fight interview with Jon Anik, Rivera was humble yet elated at the same time and thanked everyone that had helped him get to where he was.

One of the classiest MMA fighters in the game will be missed but not forgotten. Rivera was in the fight game for ten and a half-year and to close out his career with a win is special………