UFC fighter Cung Le retires

Cung Le is tapping out one last time.

The former Strikeforce middleweight champion and UFC fighter announced his retirement Tuesday after a 17-year career, according to MMA Weekly.

"After several months of thought and discussion with my wife and family, we realized our future includes many things, but active competition in mixed martial arts is no longer one of them," Le, 42, said in a statement released by Athletic Management Representation Group. "Therefore, I am officially announcing my retirement from active competition."

Le, who began his career in kickboxing, fought four times in the UFC with split results. He lost to Michael Bisping in his final Octagon fight last August. He ends his MMA career with a lifetime record of 9-3 after having gone 17-0 as a kickboxer.

"I'd like to recognize the UFC for the opportunity they have provided me, the sport of mixed martial arts, and more importantly the fans who love it, you will never be far from my heart. It has truly been my honor and my privilege to entertain you," Le said.