UFC Fight Night In Sacramento

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) -- UFC bantamweight fighter Urijah Faber, also known as the "California Kid" and regarded by many as a pioneer of UFC fighting, raised his fists for his final fight to chants of "Fa-ber! Fa-ber!" as he walked into the octagon at the Golden 1 Center.

"It's been fun, but I feel like it's time," Faber said at a post-fight press conference.

In a career that spans two decades, the 37-year-old Faber, who calls Sacramento home,  ended his career against long-time opponent, Brad Pickett.

Faber dominated for three rounds, winning in unanimous decision and to a standing ovation.

"It's a neat way to go out. It's a way for me to showcase that I am going out on my terms," said Faber.

Faber became highly popular with fans for his big personality and a willingness to fight whoever came his way. He also wrestled and coadhed for UC Davis.

The sell-out crowd was packed with fans honoring Faber for Sacramento on the MMA map.

"A WEC champ, held the belt for couple of years, he defended it. He took the sport to the highest level. Put Sacramento on the map. California Kid!" shared a young man who was coached at Davis by Faber.

As the California Kid calls it quits, he passes the baton to his protégé, Paige VanZant, who trains at Faber's gym.

"Regardless of what happened tonight,  I was the main event in Sacramento," said VanZant. She said that was an honor she will never forget.

The seventh-ranked VanZant took on Michelle Waterson in the five-round main event.

But Waterson made her move quick and early. Minutes into round one, she put Vanzant in a chokehold, and VanZant tapped out.

"I got caught tonight. It happens in this sport. It's a fight. Absolutely anything can happen," said VanZant.

So what does will happen next for these two?

VanZant, a former Dancing With the Stars contest, says she has some upcoming projects, as well as training for more fights.

As for Faber, who is still in top fighting form, he says he wanted to go out while he is still healthy.