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Dana White shrugs off UFC not re-signing 7-0 Farid Basharat: 'There’s definitely a reason'

UFC CEO Dana White has downplayed the decision not to re-sign Farid Basharat, who compiled a 7-0 record in the promotion, suggesting there is a clear rationale behind the move. The bantamweight’s departure follows a pattern of undefeated fighters leaving the UFC without long-term contracts, raising questions about the organization’s priorities and the future of rising stars in mixed martial arts.

Meanwhile, UFC star Payton Talbott has sparked controversy by publicly criticizing Basharat after his exit, fueling a social media feud. Elsewhere, Akbar Abdullaev has secured his first UFC contract after impressing on Dana White’s *Contender Series*, while Joaquin Buckley made headlines for his unusual silence and refusal to shake hands with White during UFC Edmonton weigh-ins.

The promotion continues to navigate challenges, from fighter pay disputes to the rise of new talent like Ivan Gnizditskiy, who joined the UFC despite missing a *Contender Series* appearance.

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