Ultimate Fighting Championship
CEO Dana White said his previous comments about promoting fighters were not specifically targeted Farid Basharatwhose contract was not renewed.Speaking during
UFC 333 In the post-fight press conference, White addressed the undefeated bantamweight’s response to comments he made after UFC Edmonton on Oct. 17.
Dana White elaborates on UFC contracts after Farid Basharat’s response
Basharat disputed suggestions that he had backed away from fights or was difficult to work with. White said he has discussed contract decisions in general.
“When I talked about why some guys get released or don’t get their contracts extended, I just said in general terms. I didn’t point to him specifically,” White said.
White’s earlier remarks suggested that decisions not to retain fighters may involve factors other than their performance in the Octagon.
He said he saw Basharat’s response on Instagram and did not intend to damage his reputation.
“I actually saw a video of him in uh on my Instagram and I was like, ‘Oh, I didn’t want to do that to that kid.'” she said. “I didn’t try to do that in any way, shape, or form. I don’t have any issues with him, personally or professionally. And, uh, you know, I’m sure with his record and what he’s going through, he’s going to bounce back somewhere.”
White also left open the possibility of Basharat returning to the UFC, although he noted that a reunion is not imminent.
