When it comes to the GOAT conversation in MMA, can you really leave Demetrious Johnson out? He was the UFC’s first-ever flyweight champion and didn’t just win the belt—he ruled the division with an iron fist, defending his title 11 times in a row! That’s the most in UFC history. And if that’s not impressive enough, he’s tied with Jon Jones for the record of most successful title defenses in the UFC.

In 2018, we witnessed one of the biggest trades in MMA history. The UFC sent ‘Mighty Mouse’ to the ONE Championship in exchange for Ben Askren. It was a move that shocked the MMA world, but it only added to Johnson’s incredible journey. Now, the storied career of one of the most legendary flyweights and mixed martial artists has come to an end. At the ONE 168 event at the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, ‘Mighty Mouse’ addressed the crowd and bid an emotional farewell to the sport of MMA by stating, “I am done competing in mixed martial arts, and I want to thank you guys so much for giving me the opportunity.”

Ariel Helwani took the time to share on Instagram his appreciation for all Demetrious Johnson has done for the sport as he posted, “Demetrious Johnson, one of the absolute greatest MMA fighters to ever compete, just announced his retirement at the ONE Championship event in Denver. DJ, 38, walks away with a pro record of 25-4-1. He’s one of the most decorated champions in UFC history and the greatest flyweight ever. No question”

Helwani’s tribute highlighted how Johnson was not only a champion in the Octagon but also in life, calling him “one of the best people” he’s ever met. The post drew an outpouring of admiration and respect for the flyweight legend with the fans also highlighting their displeasure with how his time in the UFC ended. Here’s a look at what the fans and many prominent names in the world of MMA had to say.

Fans and MMA legends shower praise on Demetrious Johnson as ‘Mighty Mouse’ walks away from MMA

UFC heavyweight legend Mark Coleman kept it simple in his response. He didn’t have to say more, ‘Mighty Mouse’s record and achievements speak for themselves. In case you missed out, in 2017, Johnson Took on Ray Borg at UFC 216 and pulled off a move that only he could have performed. Slinging Borg into a suplex, he caught his arm in mid-air, locked in an armbar, and finished the fight in the fifth round!

“Real as it gets goat Fly”

And he’s not alone. Bantamweight contender Merab Dvalishvili, and UFC middleweight legend, Chris Weidman echoed the same sentiments as well in their responses.

“@merab.dvalishvili: Real goat, @chrisweidman: congratulations DJ. One of the best to ever do it hands down!”

However, some fans were not happy with how Johnson’s time with the UFC ended. In his last fight for the promotion, ‘Mighty Mouse’ lost the flyweight championship to Henry Cejudo via a split decision. The judges’ scorecards for the bout were razor-close as well with Cejudo being given rounds 2,4,5 by two of the judges and Johnson winning rounds 1,2,3 on one scorecard. Do you think Johnson should have won that bout?

“I’m still mad at how the UFC cheated him with the decision over Triple c. He deserved better than that.”

While his absence from MMA will be missed, the fans pointed out that it’s a blessing in disguise. On his YouTube channel, Demetrious Johnson has been posting videos of him competing in gi-grappling tournaments. So, will we get to see some more highlights but this time in the world of BJJ instead? We’ll have to wait and see!

“Sad day for the MMA community, great day for the Jiu Jitsu community, we get the DJ black belt run”

Others pointed out that Johnson deserves a spot on the ‘Mt. Rushmore’ of ‘GOAT’ MMA fighters. Becoming a champion in not just the UFC but in ONE Championship as well and walking away with an impressive 25-4-1 record would be enough of an argument. But with his record-setting title defenses and going undefeated in the UFC from 2012 to 2017 just adds more weight to the fan’s claims of his ‘GOAT’ candidacy!

“Def on the Mt Rushmore of (goat emoji)”

In conclusion, Demetrious Johnson’s retirement doesn’t just mark the end of an era; it raises a question: who can fill his shoes? Will we ever see someone dominate the game like ‘Mighty Mouse’ again? Perhaps. But one thing is clear—he will be remembered not just for his wins, but for how he carried himself along the way. A true professional, a class act, and, in the eyes of many, the real greatest of all time. What is your favorite ‘Mighty Mouse’ performance? Let us know in the comments below!