Top UFC Bantamweight Contender Farid Basharat Released After Contract Ends

Farid Basharat Cut from UFC Despite Top-10 Ranking

Farid Basharat, a leading contender in the UFC Bantamweight division, has been removed from the UFC roster after completing his contract. This news comes from MMA Fighting, revealing that the Afghan fighter known as "Ferocious" was released less than a year after his brother also parted ways with the promotion, despite holding a positive record.

Basharat was actually the more successful sibling. According to Meta Rankings, he stood at No. 9 in the 135-pound category. His career record is undefeated at 17-0, which includes seven wins inside the Octagon.

Notable Wins and Fighting Style

Among Basharat’s victories are notable fighters such as Chris Gutierrez, Jean Matsumoto, and Taylor Lapilus. Although only one of his UFC wins came by stoppage, Basharat has never been labeled dull. His style features a high pace and fluid transitions between striking and wrestling, resulting in dynamic and technical fights.

UFC’s Shift and Future Possibilities

The decision to release Basharat coincided with the end of the fall season of the Contender Series. It suggests the UFC may be focusing on fresh faces, despite Basharat being only 29 years old and clearly talented. It raises questions about the promotion’s commitment to retaining some of the top-ranked fighters in the world for their weight class.

Speculation now surrounds whether Basharat might follow his brother into the Professional Fighters League (PFL) or explore other opportunities outside the UFC.