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“This S**t’s Not Worth It”- With 57% Of His Total Losses Coming From Finishes, Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Former Opponent Picks His Alternate Career Choice Over Combat Sports

Published 07/06/2023, 10:12 AM EDT

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From duking it out in the UFC’s fierce octagon to slinging deals in the cut-throat world of real estate, Al Iaquinta has made a surprising career leap that has surprised fans and foes alike. The man known as ‘Raging’ hung up his gloves and traded punches for property.

When you think of Al Iaquinta, his battle with the notorious Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 223 inevitably comes to mind. The fearless lightweight is one of the few fighters who has shared the ring with The Eagle. But in 2019, he endured a severe injury that kept him sidelined for two years. Now, Iaquinta has retired with a record of 14 wins and 7 losses (4 losses via finishes).

Al Iaquinta exudes confidence as he talks about his new career

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Iaquinta recently appeared in an interview with the Newsday where he shed some light on his new career. The former UFC fighter did not sound a bit nervous when talking about his success goals in this competitive industry.

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Confident and unwavering, Iaquinta boldly declared, “It’s an uphill battle breaking in. But there’s nobody that’s going to outwork me. If I can get into an Octagon and fight somebody, [New York real estate company] Douglas Elliman ain’t got nothing on me.”

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With his trademark tenacity, he embraced the challenge of a slowing housing market and established competition, believing that his grit and determination will lead him to success.

Why did Al Iaquinta retire from MMA?

As Iaquinta reflected on his fighting career, he also confronts the dark reality that drove him to retire. After his last bout against Bobby Green, ending in a brutal first-round TKO defeat, he candidly admitted, “That s**t is not worth it.”

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The relentless toll that mixed martial arts takes on the body and mind became too much to bear. Observing the grueling match between Michael Chandler and Justin Gaethje, Iaquinta couldn’t help but question the value of such brutality.

“Fighting again? I’m thinking that’s it, man. I’m thinking that’s it. That’s the way to go out. Obviously, you want to go out on a win, but this s**t’s not worth it, dude. You saw Michael Chandler and Justin Gaethje fight. Those guys – they beat the hell out of each other. That wasn’t worth it.”

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Watch This Story – Khabib Nurmagomedov Inspired Man Takes On A Bear

While his time in the UFC octagon might be over, fans will always remember Al Iaquinta for his exceptional fighting spirit.

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Written by:

Sushant Sharma

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Sushant Sharma is a UFC writer at EssentiallySports who has a keen understanding of the complex commercial nature of the sport. With a degree in Commerce from a prestigious institute, Sushant has a unique perspective on the multi-million-dollar industry that surrounds the UFC. He is an avid fan of the sport and has been following it closely since 2016.
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Edited by:

Jayant Chhabra