MMA pioneer Chuck Liddell retires at 41

Former light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell, one of the pioneers of modern mixed martial arts, has retired from professional fighting.

The "Iceman" said yesterday that he will become an executive vice president for business development with the Ultimate Fighting Championship, the organization that rocketed him to stardom in the United States more than a decade ago.

Liddell, 41, announced his retirement during a news conference for UFC 125 on Saturday night.

The former collegiate wrestler made his UFC debut in 1998 and quickly became one of the sport's most popular fighters. He fought nearly every big name in mixed martial arts, including Randy Couture, Tito Ortiz and Wanderlei Silva.

His last fight was a knockout loss to Rich Franklin at UFC 115 in June.

"I've been fighting for a long time," Liddell told ESPN.com. "I talked to my family and friends about it. In this last fight, it seemed I wasn't able to take a shot like I used to. And I just haven't been able to put together wins. If I can't compete with the best or if I'm not fighting for a title, then I have nothing to prove."

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