Melvin Guillard Retires After Ending 11-Year Losing Streak With First-Round Knockout

UFC fighter Melvin Guillard has officially retired from professional MMA after finally breaking an 11-year winless drought. The 42-year-old recorded a startling first-round knockout of Terry Wiggins in 24 seconds.

It was Guillard's first fight victory since July 2014, when he beat Gesias Cavalcante at World Series of Fighting 11.

Guillard's Emotional Goodbye

Melvin Guillard Retires After Ending 11-Year Losing Streak With First-Round

Guillard's long-awaited win came via a brutal knee, ending an 11-fight losing streak (plus one no-contest) that stretched across nearly a decade. Immediately afterward, Guillard laid down his gloves to bring closure to a career that spanned more than 60 professional MMA bouts.

Guillard told the fans that "it's that time" to be ready to do something else. He was aware that he had already endured more than 200 fights, and it had been a great run of his career.

After the news, Guillard went on social media to reminisce about his career.

"Went out the way I came in just as I manifested!!! It's been an amazing career. [I] will always go out on top of the world. For all my haters, I appreciate your hateful ways, all love... Ya out!!!"

Rise of 'The Young Assassin'

Known as The Young Assassin, Guillard initially gained national attention as one of the memorable personalities on The Ultimate Fighter Season 2. Although he lost his welterweight elimination fight to Josh Burkman, he earned a UFC deal after beating Marcus Davis at the finale.

Between 2008 and 2011, Guillard exploded into title contention, sweeping eight of nine bouts in thrilling fashion. His relentless striking and knockout ability made him one of the most formidable threats in the lightweight division. At his best, he seemed but a step removed from fighting for UFC gold.

The Downward Spiral

Yet, inconsistency and personal issues derailed Guillard's path. According to TalkSport, his later years with the UFC were marred by a series of losses, ending with his release in 2014 following a defeat to Michael Johnson. Outside the UFC, Guillard was 2-12 with a no-contest in MMA competition.

His off-cage problems, legal troubles, drug use, and broken relationships within the MMA world added to his deterioration. Guillard spent a brief period competing in bare-knuckle boxing, where he collected a couple of wins but eventually lost four in a row for the BKFC.

Legacy of a Fearless Fighter

Despite the rough ride, Guillard's career highlights include victories against such quality fighters as Jeremy Stephens, Mac Danzig, Gleison Tibau, and Dennis Siver. His UFC stint concluded at 12-9-1 NC, replete with unforgettable knockouts and wild scrambles that enthralled fans.

Though he never won a title, Guillard's aggressive approach and willingness to engage with anyone made his mark. Guillard is always after the highlight-reel finish. He always wants to make the crowd happy and proves that it's not always about wins inside the octagon.

If one door closes, someone's door opens. Tyjani Beztati is exiting GLORY to pursue a more intense MMA career.