The big announcement Dana White promised at today’s press conference in lieu of the UFC 125 hype was the retirement of Chuck Liddell. As he ended his UFC fight career, he was given a new job. The Iceman was officially given the title of Executive VP of Business of Development.
From the UFC press release:
At today’s live press conference for UFC 125, Liddell took to the podium to express his gratitude for the support shown by the UFC, his fans, family, and friends during his career. He also spoke of his desire to make an immediate impact in his new role by helping UFC continue its global expansion.
“I love the sport and I’m excited to go into a new stage in my life and keep promoting something that I love,” Liddell said. “I’ve enjoyed everything about being a professional athlete and a UFC champion. At this point in my life though, the real challenge for me is to continue helping the UFC become the global powerhouse that we all know it will become. I look forward to working with everyone at the UFC, especially all of the fighters, to make the UFC the biggest and most successful sports organization.”
UFC Chairman and CEO Lorenzo Fertitta noted that Liddell’s duties will include work on fighter relations and government regulation throughout the U.S. and internationally, but that Liddell’s main focus would be on developing new business for the company.
Payout Perspective:
Chuck Liddell’s official retirement from fighting comes as no surprise but the appointment to a position within the UFC is a nice touch. It keeps Liddell from the thought of returning to the Octagon while having him stay close as a recognizable face for the UFC. The move is similar to a retiring athlete moving into the front office of a sports team.
Liddell’s position sounds like an Ambassador of MMA. I think the new role will keep him involved with the UFC and will hopefully open new opportunities. Before GSP, Liddell was the face of the UFC. He is still a recognizable figure around the world and would be a welcome presence at UFC events and functions.
Lucky Liddell getting a nice token position. Probably won’t last long, but a good way of keeping Liddell from fighting anywhere else for the next few years.