Graeme McDonnell 
UFC welterweight champion Georges St Pierre has announced he is stepping away from Mixed Martial Arts and has vacated his title effective immediately at a media call in Quebec City today.
Accompanied by UFC President Dana White, the Canadian told media representatives that he was in perfect physical health but wished to remove himself from the limelight and the pressures that come with his notoriety.
White also had news his own, announcing that Johny Hendricks and Robbie Lawler would fight for the vacant belt on March 15th, 2014 in Dallas, Texas.
St Pierre fought most recently at UFC 167 last month when he defended his title for a record ninth consecutive time, earning a controversial split-decision over No1 contender Johny Hendricks.
At the post fight press conference a clearly distressed St Pierre spoke about potentially walking away from the sport, angering White, who felt Hendricks had won the fight and deserved an immediate rematch.
There has been much speculation around the two-time champion’s mental well-being since his interview on the Joe Rogan Podcast last summer, when he tentatively told the UFC colour commentator about experiences he may have had with alien life forms.
Although he has no plans to fight again anytime soon, Rush has left the door open for a possible return to the octagon when he has resolved his current personal issues.
By Tom Rooney – @oldmanrooney
I mean you just have to look at this picture to know GSP is making the right decision. He may be a fantastic athlete with an undeniable work ethic. But he just seems to be getting more and more damaged each fight. If your mind is not in the game then your body will not follow. He needs a break to regroup and come back stronger, which he will. His urge to compete is too strong.