The news came on Tuesday evening when Bloody Elbow’s Mookie Alexander tweeted about Philippou’s Twitter account and UFC Vice President of Public Relations Dave Sholler responded.
@mookiealexander he has indicated to UFC that he has retired. That should end the speculation for you.
— Dave Sholler (@Sholler_UFC) July 7, 2015
Philippou (13-5, 1NC) began his professional career in 2008 and fought his first nine fights under the New Jersey based Ring of Combat banner. After a decision victory over current UFC middleweight Uriah Hall in 2011, Philippou got the call to the big show.