Brock Lesnar Retires: Was Brock Lesnar's Illness the Beginning of the End?

Brock Lesnar entered the Octagon at UFC 141 more focused than ever in hopes of relighting the fire under his mega-hyped career.

When action began, Lesnar circled the Octagon with fellow heavyweight Alistair Overeem as the world awaited the takedown attempt by Lesnar.

The attempt came, but unfortunately for Lesnar it was unsuccessful as Overeem remained on his feet and pressed action up against the cage.

Lesnar's entire game plan appeared to be crashing down as the black-and-white fight quickly favored Overeem and his overpowering striking.

However, it was Overeem's knees that would have a lasting effect not only on the outcome of the fight but Lesnar's career.

After grueling knees, Lesnar dropped to the ground as the UFC newcomer began swinging for the fences on the 265-pound Lesnar.

The bout was stopped as Overeem captured the first win of his UFC career.

Following the fight, Lesnar announced he would be retiring from the sport of MMA as he made a promise to his family that a loss would result in his final fight.

However, with promises aside, it's likely Lesnar's illness played a larger role in his decision to step away.

While Lesnar stated he felt the best he ever has leading up to his UFC 141 bout, it's hard not to question how much of a factor his battle with diverticulitis played in his first-round defeat to Overeem.

In fact, it's hard not to question if Lesnar's time off and battle with his illness were in the back of his head as he entered the Octagon in the most important fight of his career.

Despite making his long-awaited return to the Octagon, it's likely Lesnar's battle with diverticulitis caused his career to be over far before UFC 141 even began.

Was Brock Lesnar's illness the beginning of the end?

For additional information, follow Garrett Derr on Twitter.