Gerald Meerschaert Retires After UFC Vegas 122 Loss

Gerald Meerschaert retired from mixed martial arts after losing to Julius Walker at UFC Vegas 122 on October 10, 2026, in Las Vegas, ending a UFC career that included 28 fights and a 60-bout professional MMA record.

According to SI.com, Meerschaert was stopped by ground strikes late in the second round of the light heavyweight bout after moving up from middleweight. The defeat marked his sixth consecutive loss.

Heavy.com reported that Meerschaert removed his gloves after the fight and confirmed his retirement during an interview with UFC commentator Michael Bisping.

"Yeah, I’ve had a good run, Michael. I set a couple records, I’ve did some things. Maybe 205, I should have done that a little earlier, but them boys are big up there, you know what I mean?

Can’t fight forever. I’ve got some good opportunities to make money for my family and make a good living. I’ve had a hell of a time out here to perform for you guys.

I can’t think of a better job. I’m going to miss you," said Gerald Meerschaert, mixed martial artist.

According to Heavy.com, Meerschaert began his professional MMA career in 2007 and finished with a 37-23 record. The fighter recorded 35 stoppage victories, including 29 submissions, across his career.

SI.com reported that Meerschaert holds the UFC middleweight records for most finishes with 12 and most submission wins with 11. He also earned five Performance of the Night bonuses during his UFC run.

Meerschaert joined the UFC roster in 2016 and won his first two Octagon appearances by first-round submission, according to SI.com. He later faced notable opponents including Khamzat Chimaev in 2020 and Reinier de Ridder in 2024.

SI.com reported that Meerschaert’s late-career losing streak followed a submission loss to de Ridder and included three defeats in 2025. His final bout came against Walker, who ended a two-fight losing streak with the victory.