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The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has parted ways with Bryan “The Butcher” Battle following his failure to make weight for the second consecutive bout, dealing a major blow to the career of the once-promising fighter.
Battle, who rose to prominence after winning The Ultimate Fighter 29 in 2021, was widely tipped as a future star for the promotion. He compiled an impressive UFC record of 7-1 with one no contest (12-2, 1NC overall), showcasing both striking prowess and solid grappling skills. His charisma and quick wit on the microphone further cemented his growing popularity among fans.
However, his struggles on the scale overshadowed his in-cage success. In December 2024, Battle weighed in four pounds over the welterweight limit ahead of his clash with contender Randy Brown. Despite securing victory in the fight, the weight issue raised concerns about his long-term future in the division.
Those concerns deepened last weekend at UFC 319 in Chicago, when Battle tipped the scales at 190 pounds — five pounds over the middleweight limit — ahead of his scheduled bout with Nursulton Ruziboev.
Although the UFC is not typically quick to release fighters for weight misses, Battle’s repeated struggles appeared to signal the promotion’s diminishing patience. Analysts suggest the move underscores the UFC’s stance on fighters who fail to meet contractual obligations regarding weight management.
The release halts what had been a promising run for the North Carolina native, who had steadily built a loyal fan base. His departure leaves questions about where “The Butcher” will take his talents next, with potential opportunities in rival promotions still on the table.
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