UFC fighters may increasingly enter free agency without contract renewals

Elijah Smith, a UFC bantamweight, has indicated a shift in contract policy within the promotion following his recent fight against Davey Grant. Traditionally, fighters would secure contract renewals before their last bout, but Smith noted that this is changing, especially for those ranked outside the top 15. He was not offered a new contract prior to competing, suggesting that many fighters may now need to fight out their contracts. This change raises questions about the financial strategy and roster management within the UFC as it faces ongoing criticism regarding fighter contracts.

• 1:18 PMYahoo Sports — Free agency the new norm? ‘They’re not doing anyone’s contract outside top 15’