Ali Abdelaziz, Marvin Vettori & Others React to Farid Basharat’s Statement After UFC Release

Yesterday, multiple media outlets reported that the Afghan-born British phenom had been removed from the UFC roster after his contract expired following his victory over John Garza at UFC 329.

So far, the promotion or UFC CEO Dana White has not revealed why the company chose not to offer "Ferocious" a new contract. 

Decision to Remove Farid Basharat Puzzling

The 29-year-old secured seven out of seven wins inside the Octagon. Although the DWCS alum rarely chased finishes in the UFC, Basharat was a well-rounded mixed martial artist who remained confident in his ability to become an undisputed champion and had called for a higher-ranked opponent in his next bout after getting his hand raised at UFC 329.

A few hours before, Basharat confirmed via an Instagram post that he is no longer with the UFC and added that he is proud of his accomplishments and record and considers himself the "best bantamweight in the world."

Check out Farid Basharat's full statement below:

Basharat also clarified that his UFC exit had nothing to do with his skill set and suggested that the promotion is "heading in a different direction from what we all grew up loving." He also revealed that he wanted to lock horns with the "toughest opponent" to get closer to the title but was not offered any bouts after his aforementioned win over Garza. 

Many notable members of the MMA community have reacted to Basharat's message post-UFC release.

MMA World Reacts to Farid Basharat’s Statement 

Amir Albazi, Belal Muhammad, Ali Abdelaziz, Jon Anik, and many other fans and fighters have reacted to Farid Basharat’s statement that confirms that he's no longer a part of the UFC

Amir Albazi wrote:

"I couldn't have put it in better words. ❤️❤️ You are the champ in our eyes"

Former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad reacted:

"❤️"

Marvin Vettori added:

"Undefeated ☝🏻"

Check out some of the reactions below: