UFC Veteran Eryk Anders Retires After Defeating Brad Tavares

Anders spoils Tavares' bid for most wins in UFC Middleweight division history.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 1:04am

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Veteran UFC Middleweight Eryk Anders announced his retirement after defeating fellow veteran Brad Tavares via unanimous decision at UFC Vegas 114. The victory spoiled Tavares' attempt to become the Middleweight division's all-time wins leader.

Why it matters

Anders was a long-time UFC fighter who never quite reached title contention but carved out a respectable career, earning four post-fight bonuses. His retirement following a victory is a rare occurrence in the brutal world of mixed martial arts.

The details

Anders (18-9) entered the UFC with hype from his background as a former Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker. While he never reached title contention, he fought 20 times in the promotion, including headlining events against Lyoto Machida and Thiago Santos. His most notable wins came against Gerald Meerschaert, Kyle Daukaus, Chris Weidman, and now Tavares in his retirement fight.

  • Eryk Anders defeated Brad Tavares via unanimous decision at UFC Vegas 114 on March 14, 2026.
  • Anders announced his retirement inside the Octagon immediately following his victory.

The players

Eryk Anders

A 20-fight UFC veteran Middleweight fighter who announced his retirement following his victory over Brad Tavares.

Brad Tavares

A veteran UFC Middleweight fighter who was attempting to become the division's all-time wins leader before being defeated by Eryk Anders.

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What they’re saying

“That's it for me, man. I've had a hell of a career. I got a win out here in front of my son, so that's huge for me. I just don't have the balls for this stuff no more, man.”

— Eryk Anders (UFC broadcast)

The takeaway

Anders' retirement following a victory is a rare occurrence in the brutal world of MMA, highlighting the physical and mental toll the sport can take on even the most seasoned fighters. His long and respectable UFC career, including several highlight-reel wins, will be remembered as that of a tough, durable competitor who ultimately decided it was time to walk away on his own terms.