Darren Elkins didn’t get the fairytale ending he envisioned, but the longtime UFC veteran is walking away from the sport with no regrets.
One of the biggest storylines heading into UFC Vegas 120 was the retirement of Darren Elkins, who made the 31st and final walk of his UFC career on August 8. Unfortunately for the beloved fan favorite, the night ended in disappointment when Yadier del Valle stopped him via TKO just 35 seconds into the opening round.
It wasn’t the ending many fans hoped to see for a fighter who built his reputation on toughness, resilience, and unforgettable comebacks. Still, Darren Elkins remains proud of everything he accomplished during a UFC run that spanned more than 16 years.
The matchup itself symbolized a passing of the torch. While Elkins entered the Octagon for the 31st time under the UFC banner, del Valle was making just his fourth appearance with the promotion. The Cuban prospect improved his professional record to 11-1 with the quick finish, while Elkins officially closed the chapter on one of the UFC’s most respected careers.
Speaking during the post-fight press conference, the emotional 42-year-old struggled to hold back tears as he reflected on his retirement.
“Obviously it’s not the ending I wanted,” Elkins said. “But that’s life. You don’t always get the ending you want.
“I got the chance to do it at least. Most people don’t get that chance. I wanted my happy ending, but shoot man, I’ve had so many happy endings in my life.
“I am thankful that I have my health, that I have my family,” he continued while tearing up. “It’s emotional, but man was it a fun ride.”
Despite the heartbreaking result, Darren Elkins said he remains satisfied with the legacy he leaves behind.
“I am (happy with my career). I’ve had a lot of good moments. I made so many good friends. I am proud of myself. I’m a guy from Indiana, small town, and no one’s done this in my town like this before.
“I did things that most people haven’t even thought about.”
Later in the press conference, Elkins admitted he feels a sense of relief now that his fighting career has come to an end.
“I’m feeling a little bit of relief,” Elkins said. “I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my life. This is a young man’s game. I knew that. I stuck around for probably a little bit longer than I should’ve, but I loved it so much. I was like, ‘We’ll do a little bit more.’
“So do I regret it? No. Should I probably have retired? Probably a little bit sooner. Maybe after the Daniel Pineda one would’ve been kinda cool, but I got greedy.”
Throughout his UFC career, Darren Elkins earned a reputation as one of the promotion’s most reliable and respected athletes. He said he always took pride in showing up, doing his job, and representing the organization professionally.
“Those guys, I’ve always got along with everybody at the UFC,” Elkins said. “I’m a guy, they know I’m gonna show up. I’m gonna clock in. I’m gonna give everything I have. I’m gonna make weight. I’m gonna be on time. I’m not gonna complain. I never complained.”
Darren Elkins retires with a career that included memorable battles against some of the sport’s biggest names, including Alexander Volkanovski, Charles Oliveira, Chad Mendes, and Jeremy Stephens. His relentless style and willingness to fight anyone made him a fan favorite throughout his time in the UFC.
One of the defining moments of Elkins’ career came at UFC 209 in 2017 when he produced a stunning comeback victory over the previously unbeaten Mirsad Bektić. After absorbing heavy punishment early, Elkins rallied to secure a dramatic finish and earn a Performance of the Night bonus in one of the most memorable wins of his career.
Fans were also pleased to hear that Elkins has no plans to continue fighting in other combat sports promotions. Prior to his retirement bout, he dismissed the possibility of competing in BKFC, making it clear that he intends to honor his decision to step away from active competition.
