Dana White Clarifies Remarks on Farid Basharat's UFC Departure
UFC CEO Dana White stated his recent comments about fighter releases were general and not intended to harm the reputation of undefeated bantamweight Farid Basharat.
· VILLAND PICK editorial
Speaking at the UFC 333 postfight press conference, UFC CEO Dana White addressed comments he made following UFC Edmonton on Oct. 17 regarding fighter departures. White clarified that his earlier remarks were intended as general observations about promotional contract decisions and were not specifically directed at undefeated bantamweight Farid Basharat, whose contract was not renewed.
White's initial remarks had suggested that decisions not to retain certain fighters could involve factors extending beyond their performances inside the Octagon. In response, Basharat posted a video on Instagram disputing suggestions that he had turned down fight offers or been difficult for the promotion to work with.
White explained that after seeing the video, he realized his comments may have been misinterpreted and emphasized that he never intended to damage Basharat's reputation. "When I was talking about why some guys get released, or their contracts don't get renewed, I was just saying in general. I wasn't pointing him out, specifically," White said.
"In no way, shape, or form did I try to do that. I have no problems with him whatsoever, personally or professionally. And, you know, I'm sure with his record and what he's got going on, he'll get resigned somewhere."
White also left open the possibility of Basharat returning to the UFC down the line, though he indicated that a reunion between the two sides is not imminent.
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