UFC’s decision to forgo re-signing undefeated bantamweight Farid Basharat has been puzzling to some, and Dana White hasn’t given a true explanation.
Basharat is 16-0 in his pro MMA career, and he went 7-0 under the UFC banner. Despite his success, he ultimately wasn’t offered a contract renewal with the top MMA promotion. Many have speculated that Basharat’s streak of decisions led to his free agency.
During a chat with reporters during the UFC Edmonton post-fight presser, White implied that UFC matchmakers usually have a problem with the fighter in these situations, but he didn’t give an actual reason for Basharat’s case (h/t MMAMania.com).
“When guys’ contracts are up — and this isn’t the first time this has happened. Either guys aren’t good to deal with, or 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 7 wins in the UFC and don’t get re-signed, there’s definitely a reason.”
“Ferocious” last competed back in June on the preliminary portion of UFC 329. That card was headlined by the short-lived and disappointing return of Conor McGregor, who suffered ACL and meniscus injuries during his rematch against Max Holloway. Basharat defeated John Garza at the event via unanimous decision.
Decision victories had become a trend for Basharat at the end of his UFC run. His last five wins have gone the distance. Despite not having a a finish since Sept. 2023, Basharat isn’t considered a boring fighter across the board. Whether or not he ran into problems with UFC matchmakers remains to be seen.
What do you make of UFC’s decision to not offer Farid Basharat’s a contract renewal? Do you think Basharat simply lacked the entertainment value and marketability? Join in on the conversation by sharing your opinion in the comments below.
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