UFC axes fan favourite among several fighters

Chris Barnett, a popular heavyweight known and adored by many MMA fans, has been removed from the UFC roster.

Various sources with awareness regarding the fighting promotion’s plans confirmed that Chris Barnett has been dropped from the roster following the unanimous decision defeat to Hamdy Abdelwahab at UFC 321 in October. UFC preview writer Tom Feely was one of the first to announce the news on X.

Barnett had six fights in the organisation, ending with a record of 2-4. “Beastboy” scored two second-round stoppage wins over Gian Villante and Jake Collier, but back-to-back defeats in Abu Dhabi to Abdelwahab and Kennedy Nzechukwu resulted in the fighter’s release. Abdelwahab despite the win also ended his UFC tenure with the promotion after having his last fight at the pay-per-view event.

It was also official that UFC lightweight and TUF 34 winner Kurt Holobaugh is also no longer part of the UFC. Holobaugh made another run with a second stint in the UCF, following his submission victory of Austin Hubbard at UFC 292. The 39-year-old however went 1-3 in his next four bouts, with his only win being a decision over Kaynan Kruschewsky in July 2024.

Another notable fighter no longer in the organisation is Kiefer Crosbie, who was axed after going 0-3 which comprised of three first-round stoppage losses.