Dana White comments on Farid Basharat's UFC exit amid controversy
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 18, 2026, 6:53 AM
Last updated Oct 18, 2026

Farid Basharat, a 16-0 bantamweight, was released from the UFC without a new contract despite an unbeaten record. Dana White suggested that the decision was influenced by factors beyond Basharat's performance, hinting at behind-the-scenes issues. Basharat expressed disappointment over his exit, citing a lack of contract offers after his last fight and signaling dissatisfaction with the UFC's direction. His older brother, Javid Basharat, also recently left the promotion. Following his release, Farid Basharat remains a free agent and is expected to attract interest from other organizations.
- •Farid Basharat ends his UFC career at 16-0 and 7-0 in the promotion.
- •Dana White indicated that more factors influenced Basharat's release beyond performance.
- •Basharat did not receive a contract offer after his last fight in July.
- •His brother, Javid Basharat, also parted ways with the UFC recently.
- •Basharat is expected to have options as a free agent.
- 6:53 AMYahoo Sports — “There’s Definitely a Reason” – Dana White Hints at Behind-the-Scenes Issues in Farid Basharat’s UFC Exit
"After the controversial release of 16-0 bantamweight Farid Basharat, Dana White weighed in on the issues that led to the decision.
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