Content with its current stable of heavyweight fighters, which includes a mix of veterans and up-and-comers, the UFC apparently no longer required the services of a widely regarded top 10 competitor.
Fabricio Werdum was unable to come to terms with UFC officials on a new contract after his surprising 81-second knockout loss to Octagon newcomer Junior “Cigano” Dos Santos at UFC 90: “Silva vs. Cote” on October 15, forcing the Brazilian and the promotion to go their separate ways, according to MMAWeekly.com.
“Vai Cavalo” perhaps spoke prematurely (or something was lost in translation) when he declared that he had inked a five-fight contract extension back in July that included a guaranteed title shot with a win over “Cigano.”
It appears that the offer may have been merely discussed and/or was contingent on a win in the “Windy City.” He also could have ruffled some feathers when he voiced his displeasure about being excluded from the mini heavyweight tournament put together to declare an undisputed division champion.
Regardless, Werdum leaves the promotion with an even record (2-2), scoring big wins over Brandon Vera and Gabriel Gonzaga and perhaps bigger losses to Andrei Arlovski and Dos Santos.
He remains a very capable and dangerous fighter who, according to the report, is already courting offers to compete in “The Land of the Rising Sun.” That’s because prior to his UFC run, the Brazilian was a very popular and successful fighter in Pride FC.
In fact, Werdum battled current UFC interim heavyweight champion Antonio Rodrigo Noguiera at Critical Countdown Absolute back in July of 2006 for the chance to advance to the semifinals of the PRIDE 2006 Open Weight Grand Prix. “Minotauro” bested Werdum by unanimous decision in what was one of many outstanding fights that night.
While his chances for a rematch anytime soon are now more than likely dashed, rest assured that we will see the Chute Boxe-trained fighter back in action sooner rather than later.
