A former UFC fighter is embarking on a new journey focused on public service after retiring from mixed martial arts.
Marlon Moraes, known as “Magic,” joined the Coral Springs Police Department in Florida as a police officer in May 2024. This transition follows his retirement from MMA in June 2023, after a first-round knockout loss to Gabriel Braga at PFL 4.
Moraes, who now works the night shift patrolling the streets of South Florida, recently shared with CBS News that his primary motivation for becoming a police officer is straightforward: to assist and support members of his community.
“Every time I go to work, I want to help someone,” Moraes stated. “When the call comes, I want to be the one.”
Ryan Gallagher, deputy chief of the Coral Springs Police Department, commended Moraes, emphasizing the former MMA fighter’s professional demeanor and dedication to serving the public.
“I found a professional, compassionate, charismatic individual who wants to serve the community,” Gallagher remarked.
Marlon Moraes’ UFC Career Overview
Marlon Moraes was a participant in the UFC from June 2017 to March 2022. After an initial split decision loss to Raphael Assuncao in his UFC debut at UFC 212, Moraes secured an impressive four-fight winning streak. His victories over notable opponents like Aljamain Sterling and John Dodson earned him a shot at the bantamweight championship.
However, the 38-year-old Brazilian’s title aspirations were cut short when he was defeated by then-champion Henry Cejudo via third-round knockout at UFC 238 in June 2019. Later that year, he achieved what would become the final win of his professional fighting career, narrowly defeating Hall of Famer Jose Aldo.
Following that victory, Moraes did not secure another win, experiencing a difficult streak of seven consecutive knockout losses across both the UFC and PFL. He concluded his fighting career with an overall record of 23 wins, 13 losses, and 1 draw, including a 5-6 record within the UFC.
