sports.yahoo.com concluded his nearly 17-year career at UFC Vegas 120 on Saturday after suffering a brutal 35-second knockout loss to Yadier del Valle in the opening round. Elkins retires holding the record for most bouts in UFC featherweight history at 29.
Yadier del Valle Secures Quick Knockout at UFC Vegas 120
Yadier del Valle spoiled Darren Elkins’ retirement after connecting with a brutal left hand that ended the featherweight bout just 35 seconds into the opening round. The sequence unfolded swiftly after Elkins fended off an initial kick but came up short on a takedown attempt, running directly into immense pressure from del Valle.
Moments after stuffing the takedown, del Valle uncorked a heavy left hand that sent Elkins crashing to the canvas in a heap. A few follow-up strikes landed on the ground before the referee rushed in to halt the action, securing del Valle the first-round finish according to combat sports reporting.
Del Valle praised his opponent in his post-fight remarks inside the octagon. This was one of the hardest camps I’ve had. This is the first thing. So I was ready for this,
del Valle said.
Darren Elkins Lays Down Gloves After 17-Year Run
While the outcome was not what he envisioned, Elkins had already vowed that Saturday night would mark the final appearance of his professional career, win, lose, or draw. Known for an unrelenting fighting style defined by durability and heart, Elkins reflected on his journey after laying his gloves down in the cage.
“Gratitude. I didn’t love how this ended but that’s life. I’m going to keep going. I can’t lose in life. I’m happy. This has been a journey. Almost 17 years. I never thought I’d still be doing it at 42 years old. I always left in the cage. Sometimes it didn’t go my way but keep going.”
Darren Elkins, via sports.yahoo.com
Throughout his tenure with the promotion, Elkins established a reputation for stepping through the fire in every contest. His retirement closes out a professional mixed martial arts run featuring distinctive historical milestones in the 145-pound weight class.
Featherweight Record and Career Statistics
Elkins finishes his career with a 29-13 record, leaving behind deep statistical footprints within the featherweight division. Reporting details of his historical standing highlight his durability across nearly two decades of elite competition.
- 29 bouts: Holds the record for the most appearances in UFC featherweight history.
- 18 wins: Ranks second-most in the history of the 145-pound division.
- 4 post-fight bonuses: Earned across a career spanning almost 17 years.
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