UFC CEO Dana White has suggested that there may be more to Farid Basharat’s departure from the promotion than his performances inside the Octagon.
Basharat made headlines this week after reports emerged that the UFC had not renewed his contract despite his unbeaten record. The bantamweight boasts a 16-0 professional MMA record, including seven victories under the UFC banner, making his exit a surprising decision.
However, Basharat has recorded just one finish during his UFC run, prompting speculation that his fighting style may not have impressed the promotion’s decision-makers enough. White, however, hinted at other possible reasons when reporters questioned him about the situation following Saturday’s UFC Edmonton event.
“I think that when guys’ contracts are up—I mean, this is the first time this has happened—either guys aren’t good to deal with and the matchmakers don’t want to deal with them, which could be turning down fights or whatever the reasoning is,” White said.
“If you’re 16-0, with seven wins in the UFC and don’t get re-signed, there’s definitely a reason.”
White did not explain why the UFC chose not to renew Basharat’s contract, and reporters did not ask any follow-up questions about the matter.
Earlier this week, Basharat also addressed his departure, rejecting suggestions that his fighting ability had anything to do with the decision.
“My departure clearly has nothing to do with my fighting capabilities. Unfortunately, the organization just isn’t what it used to be. They’re heading in a different direction from what we all grew up loving.”
White’s comments about Basharat’s departure are not the first time he has hinted at behind-the-scenes issues involving a highly regarded fighter who left the UFC.
Meanwhile, Basharat has continued to criticize the UFC’s approach to matchmaking and promotion. In a new video shared on social media, the undefeated fighter questioned whether the company was prioritizing finishes and spectacle over technical ability and high-level competition.
“I think the company, the UFC, is manufacturing a fan base that doesn’t appreciate good quality fighting,” Basharat said. “Even if it’s a mismatch, even if it’s a low level fight, as long as there’s blood, as long as it’s a first-round finish, we’re happy.”
Basharat argued that prioritizing entertainment over athletic performance could ultimately damage the sport’s credibility.
“In my opinion, you just can’t build a sport off that,” he continued. “Because you might do well for a couple of years ratings wise, but sooner or later it’s going to de-legitimize the sport, and the fans are going to be left wanting high-quality fights.”
