Last Friday evening was the last time Rich “No Love” Clementi would grace the cage.
At Bellator 81, Clementi was submitted in the second round by Marcin Held. The lightweight fighter was on a three fight winning streak prior to his loss to Held.
Following the loss, Clementi took to Facebook to announce his retirement from the sport of MMA.
“Well. I guess this day had to come some time. Just wish it could have been on my terms but then again we all know that wouldn’t have happened because I would have always wanted just one more time under those lights. I am so grateful for the things this sport has taught me. The friends, experiences and most of all learning who I am. I am so lucky I have a platform to share these experiences and help others try to reach there dreams. I want to thank everyone that has helped me in this experience. Now it’s time to turn the page. That’s life and now the same drive will be passed off towards my guys and now I will be able to give more of me to them. I am very excited to see what the future has in store for me. I will update my condition when my MRI comes back. Surgery a must just not sure about some of the other issues. Doc said my body has been around the block a few times. I can only smile.”
Clementi (45-22-1) built up a 13-6 record before being picked up by the UFC. He lost his first fight for the promotion, but was eventually brought back to participate on the fourth season of The Ultimate Fighter. He fought 10 times under the UFC banner and went 5-5 with key victories over Sam Stout, Anthony Johnson and Melvin Guillard.
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