Jedrzejczyk explains retirement: 'Time to fully enjoy my life'

Joanna Jedrzejczyk knows better than most that it takes an enormous amount of commitment to be an accomplished MMA fighter.

That's why, more than a decade into her pro career, the former UFC strawweight champion decided to walk away from the sport following a knockout loss to Zhang Weili at UFC 275 on Saturday.

"I've been in this business for the last 19 years," Jedrzejczyk said at the postfight press conference, according to MMA Fighting. "Lots of investment from myself. It's time to fully enjoy my life.

"Honestly, I had no time to sit on it and think about my legacy, how big it is. I'm a hard worker, and I always dedicate myself. I give as much as I can, and I get as much as I can in the same way. But now, it's time to really, fully enjoy it."

Jedrzejczyk was a trailblazer for the 115-pound division. Carla Esparza became the inaugural champion after winning "The Ultimate Fighter 20" in 2014, but it was Jedrzejczyk who put the division on the map. She took the title from Esparza in 2015 and defended it a record five times until losing to Rose Namajunas in 2017.

When asked what she wants her legacy to be, the Poland native said she simply hopes MMA fans recognize and appreciate all that it takes to be a fighter.

"I want people to look at the athletes who are winning or losing as hard workers," Jedrzejczyk said. "People don't see the preparation. People see only the (result) - you win or you lose in this sport."

Reflecting on her rise in MMA to become one of the greatest women's fighters in history, Jedrzejczyk said she wants people to know that "everything and anything is possible."

"It doesn't matter who you are, where you're from, what color is your skin, what religion you believe in, what your gender is. You can make it," Jedrzejczyk said. "I'm from a small city in Poland. I was dreaming about the trip to the United States when I was a little girl. Every time I closed my eyes, I saw a panorama of Manhattan.

"A few years later, my picture was hanging at Times Square before (UFC) 205 or another event. Dreams are coming true, but we have to work hard and really believe. I'm proud of myself."

Jedrzejczyk said she plans to stay involved with the UFC in retirement and will attend upcoming events such as International Fight Week, the London card, and the promotion's debut in Paris. She added that she wants to pursue a career in management.

"It's been an honor for me. I will (be) a UFC soldier forever," Jedrzejczyk said.