Last night under the lights at the Manchester Arena, the curtain closed on a long and distinguished career on one of America's greatest ever fighters.

Dan Henderson missed out on finishing his career on a high as he was beaten via unanimous decision against Michael Bisping, the Briton retaining his middleweight crown in the process.

Speaking after the fight, he thanked the fans for their support and confirmed that he would not be stepping into the octagon again.

"That's the last time anyone will see me fight live," he said. !I appreciate all the support I've had throughout the years. I've given my heart and soul to this sport.

"The fans made it worthwhile for me to keep competing year after year. I love the sport. I came up short tonight... but I'm not bad for an old men."

He added: "I just wish the judge had called it on the way we both looked after the fight."

.@danhendo gets an unbelievable Manchester reception as he speaks for potentially the last time in the cage. #UFC204 https://t.co/HVNnkSqoub

— #UFC204 (@btsportufc) October 9, 2016

The 46-year-old finishes his career with a record of 32-15 and has held belts in both PRIDE and Strikeforce promotions. 

His most famous KO came against Michael Bisping back at UFC 100, the still from his flying punch is now used as his logo.