Wexford’s Brian Moore hangs up the gloves

A well-known Wexford MMA fighter has decided to hang up his gloves…

Wexford’s Brian Moore has decided to retire from Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).

Sharing the news on his social media channels on Thursday evening, Brian Moore – also known as “The Pikeman” believes the time is right that he informs his loyal fans about his retirement from the sport:

“I have decided to retire from MMA competition. An overdue post as I’ve been retired for many months now but still get asked about fighting all of the time. There is no one reason. I am simply very happy and excited in a life outside of fighting – which makes it the time right. I leave the sport on my own terms; healthy, happy, excited, with no regrets. I followed my dream and gave it my all – still in love the sport that gave me so much,” he said.

The Wexford man said he is proud of achievements, none more so than being the first Irish man to headline a Bellator fight:

“I am proud of what I did. I started martial arts in my 20’s, competing the last 15 years while working full time running my gym. I fought some of the best in the world across the 3 weight classes, the first Irishman to headline a Bellator event in Ireland, fought for the company 13 times and was ranked in the Top 10. My career was a wild one! But one I adore and will look back upon fondly,” Moore said.

The proud Wexford man – who often donned the Purple and Gold colours in the Octagon – remains incredibly grateful for those who helped him along on his journey. From his coaches, sparring partners, friends, and family, he thanked them all who backed his dream:

“I want to tell everyone that the support you gave me was a dream come true. Ever since I was 5 years old, all I wanted to be was a professional athlete and the support I recieved throughout was humbling and hard to put into words.”

“Thank you to every coach I ever had who sculpted the fighter I became especially my head coach from day one, John Kavanagh. Thank you to every teammate who I had the honor of sharing the mat with – the memories we made for life! Thank you to every opponent who put it all on the line with me as we chased bigger things.”

Thank you to One Hit Management who care so much and my sponsors who backed me each time. Thank you to my family and friends you were always behind me every single step of the way The most important person I want to thank is my amazing wife Noreen Moore whose support and love I cannot put into words. You are the best.”

I am not sure if I motivated anyone to become a fighter. I do know I made people fans of the sport. But I do hope that I motivate at least one person out there to chase what makes you excited and go for it with all you have! Every fight and every thing I do is for you Noreen, Missie and Bonnie. Thanks for always being in my corner,” he said.

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