Photo via Yahoo Sports

Farid Basharat Says UFC Told His Team He Was a Boring Fighter

Former UFC bantamweight contender Farid Basharat, who entered the Octagon with a flawless 16-0 MMA record and a 7-0 UFC mark, has revealed the promotion’s surprising decision to release him was rooted in a perceived lack of excitement. According to Basharat, UFC executives privately told his team they found his fighting style unengaging, particularly after his decision victories over Chris Gutierrez and Jean Matsumoto.

The criticism stems from Basharat’s rare use of finishes—only one of his seven UFC wins ended via submission, an arm-triangle choke over Kleydson Rodrigues in 2023—despite his consistent ability to outpoint opponents. The 29-year-old’s release has baffled fans, as he remains undefeated and in his prime, though UFC president Dana White has only vaguely attributed the move to matchmakers’ discretion without elaborating.

Basharat’s team reportedly sought clarification post-Gutierrez, only to be told the UFC still viewed his fights as lacking in entertainment value, leaving his future with the organization uncertain despite his elite record.

Up nextMMA· 2h ago

Jacobe Smith Accepts Short Notice Fight for UFC Vegas 123