After more than two decades as the leader and head coach of one of Brazil’s top MMA teams, Andre Pederneiras has officially stepped down from his role.

“Dede” coached former champions in top MMA promotions over the past 21 years, including UFC stars Jose Aldo and Renan Barao and Bellator bantamweight Eduardo Dantas, and announced his decision on social media after an interview to Combate.

According to Pederneiras, “the decision to step down as Nova Uniao leader happened after we opened Upper Arena, which has worked as a training center for Nova Uniao for two years.”

The plan, he continued, is to “turn Upper Arena in a neutral place for high-level training for athletes from other teams as well, not only Nova Uniao” and “build the best and biggest martial arts training center of the country.”

Pederneiras had previously mentioned his plans to retire as a coach and cornerman back in 2015 but continued to coach at Nova Uniao and corner his top stars, like Jose Aldo.

”Dede” still plans on coaching fighters, but will be available to train athletes who don’t represent Nova Uniao, he told Combate. He will continue to run Shooto Brazil and manager fighters.

Check his full statement below.