Yet another fighter has left the UFC this week, though unlike the previous wave of releases, Michael McDonald specifically requested his release.
McDonald (17-4) announced tonight via Facebook that he is officially a free agent, as his request to be released was granted after a week and a half of waiting. He leaves the UFC having gone 6-3 with the organisation.
The 26-year-old has cited a dissatisfaction with the organisation as the reason behind his exit, although he has refrained from going into details at this time. He is scheduled to give an interview with ESPN’s Brett Okamoto next week, in which the full story is likely to emerge.
McDonald’s statement on Facebook reads as follows:
“Here’s some news for ya lol. About a week and a half ago I asked to be released from my UFC contract so I could look elsewhere to fight. Today they accepted my resignation.
“On Wednesday I will be doing an interview with ESPN going in depth on the whole situation. But for your info, I felt like the UFC was dealing with me very dishonestly and disrespectfully. I prefer to look elsewhere for a place to fight. For full details, be sure to tune in on Wednesday as i talk with Brett from ESPN and give the whole story.”
McDonald was at one time, a title contender in the UFC Bantamweight division. He actually faced Renan Barao for the interim title back in February 2013 in London, though he came up short. Injuries then hampered his career, indeed, he missed the entirety of 2014 and 2015 before going 1-1 in his return in 2016. Most recently, McDonald lost to John Lineker last July.
With wins over Brad Pickett, Miguel Torres and Chris Cariaso on his resume, McDonald will likely have no shortage of offers as to his next contract. MMA Plus will bring you all the latest news as soon as we get it.
