The UFC 293 event between Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland gave us some big moments. None bigger than the main event which saw Strickland outclass Adesanya to become champion. And although UFC 293 happened a month ago, it is still impacting fighters, as we now know Mike Mathena, A.K.A Blood Diamond, is no longer part of the UFC.
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The UFC is constantly releasing fighters and adding new fighters. Therefore, there is a cut-throat competition for places on the UFC roster. And while the leading MMA promotion seeks the next big deal in combat sports, some fighters have to make way. And it appears Mike Mathena has suffered the same fate.
Fighter Removed From Roster After Loss on Adesanya vs Strickland Card at UFC 293
UFC removes popular fighter from roster after UFC 293 loss
Mike Mathena, or as we more commonly know him as, Blood Diamond, competed on the early prelims of the Israel Adesanya vs Sean Strickland card in Australia. He took on Charles Radtke in the welterweight division and went in as the underdog.
The Zimbabwean tried to stamp his authority on the fight. However, the Radtke started well and dominated the first two rounds. And despite a good effort from Mathena in the third round, all three judges scored in favor of the American.
And now, UFC Roster Tracker on X confirmed that Blood Diamond is no longer part of the UFC Roster. The profile is a bot that posts updates based on the updates that the UFC makes to its roster. Therefore, although there is no official announcement, it is still certain.
While is bad news for the Zimbabwean, it does not come as a surprise. Blood Diamond entered the UFC as an undefeated 3-0 fighter and a lot of hype as Israel Adesanya’s former teammate. However, he lost all three fights in the UFC. And all three were on the prelims or early prelims of PPV cards. Therefore, it is no surprise.
Moreover, Blood Diamond is not the only fighter from UFC 293 to lose his UFC contract. John Makdessi and Shane Young are also no longer on the UFC roster.
So there you have it. What do you make of these releases from the UFC? Do you think they will regret it and have to resign them in the future?
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