Photo via Yahoo Sports

Farid Basharat confirms release, says UFC different from ‘what we all grew up loving’

Undefeated UFC bantamweight Farid Basharat has been released from the promotion after a 16-fight, 16-win run, including seven victories in the UFC since joining in 2022. The 29-year-old Afghan fighter, who holds the longest active win streak in his division and the fourth-longest in the UFC, most recently defeated John Garza by unanimous decision at UFC 329 in July.

Basharat’s departure comes despite his dominance, with his statement criticizing the UFC’s shift away from the sport’s traditional appeal. He claimed the organization has moved in a direction ‘different from what we all grew up loving,’ adding he was never offered a contract or opponent following his last fight.

His tenure included just one finish—a submission over Kleydson Rodrigues—while racking up decision wins over fighters like Jean Matsumoto and Chris Gutierrez. Basharat expressed gratitude to fans and UFC staff but emphasized his belief in his own skill, calling himself the best bantamweight in the world before leaving with an unblemished record.

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