UFC Cuts Shock Bantamweight Contender Basharat

Promotion trims roster ahead of new broadcast deal, releases rising star and other fighters

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The UFC has started making roster cuts in 2024 as part of adjustments following a new broadcast agreement with Paramount. This has led to the unexpected release of unbeaten bantamweight contender Javid Basharat, despite his recent victory at UFC Vegas 113. Featherweight Lucas Almeida and veteran welterweight Alex Morono were also let go by the promotion.

Why it matters

These roster cuts underscore the UFC's increasing emphasis on fighter marketability and recent form as key factors in contract decisions. The dismissal of a promising contender like Basharat highlights the unpredictable nature of roster stability, which may heighten pressure on fighters to both win and captivate audiences consistently.

The details

Basharat secured a unanimous decision win at UFC Vegas 113, improving his UFC record to 4-2-1 over seven fights. Despite this, the UFC decided not to renew his contract, surprising many. Featherweight Lucas Almeida, who compiled a 2-4 record across six UFC bouts, and veteran welterweight Alex Morono, who lost his last four matchups, were also released.

  • On February 11, 2026, reporter Tom Feely confirmed that Basharat had been released from the UFC.
  • The UFC roster cuts took place in early 2024 as part of adjustments following a new broadcast agreement with Paramount.

The players

Javid Basharat

An unbeaten bantamweight contender who was unexpectedly released by the UFC despite a recent victory.

Lucas Almeida

A Brazilian featherweight who was cut from the UFC roster after compiling a 2-4 record across six UFC bouts.

Alex Morono

A veteran welterweight who was removed from the UFC roster after losing his last four matchups, finishing with an overall UFC record of 13-10-1.

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What they’re saying

“Javid Basharat has been removed from the https://t.co/YHr2ZDqw9f roster”

— Tom Feely, Reporter (Twitter)

The takeaway

These roster cuts highlight the UFC's increasing focus on fighter marketability and recent performance as key factors in contract decisions, which could heighten pressure on fighters to not only win but also captivate audiences consistently. The unexpected release of a promising contender like Basharat underscores the unpredictable nature of roster stability in the promotion.