Damir Ismagulov (right) (photo via M-1 Challenge)

The UFC lightweight division took a hit today, as one of its most talented fighters appears to have announced their retirement.  #12 ranked lightweight Damir Ismagulov took to his Instagram to make a post declaring an end to his fighting career, mentioning “circumstances and health problems” as a reason in the caption.

The 31-year-old lightweight burst into the UFC winning his first five fights, before suffering his first defeat in seven years to Arman Tsarukyan.  With notable wins over Guram  Kutateladze, Thiago Moises and Joel Alvarez, Ismagulov established himself as one of the best in the division with a really bright future.  Therefore, his sudden retirement comes as a shock.

If this retirement is one that is permanent for Ismagulov, then hopefully it is one he enjoys and that his personal circumstances find a healthy resolution.

Ismagulov leaves the sport boasting an impressive overall record of 24-2.