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Two-time title contender and The Ultimate Fighter 14 Champion John Dodson has been released from the UFC.
Sources close to the bantamweight and flyweight veteran confirmed the news to MMA Fighting on Friday. Dodson’s manager, Ricky Kottenstette, issued a statement after news of Dodson’s release was confirmed.
“We are excited to see what other offerings there are for John,” said Kottenstette. “John is 100 percent committed to his fighting career and his skill set has not diminished at all.
“John has fought the best in the world in two weight classes and is still more than ready to face elite competition. We look forward to speaking with each and every promotion to find John the best home for his future. “
Dodson’s departure from the UFC comes after he spent nearly a decade with the promotion following his victory in YOU F in 2011. Dodson was undefeated on reality television before ending the season with a knockout of future bantamweight champion TJ Dillashaw.
After competing on the bantamweight reality series, Dodson dropped to 125 pounds where he went 2-0 to earn a shot at flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson in January 2013. “The Wizard” gave Johnson a fight incredibly tough but finally lost a decision after five rounds. Dodson worked his way to a rematch at UFC 191, but fell short against Johnson for the second time.
Dodson managed to beat a long list of top-ranked flyweights, including Jussier Formiga, Tim Elliott and John Moraga.
After the second fight with Johnson, Dodson decided to move up to bantamweight, where he remained a stalwart of the top 15 while scoring impressive wins over Pedro Munhoz, Eddie Wineland and a TKO victory against prospect Nathaniel Wood.
Dodson fell to Merab Dvalishvili by decision in his most recent outing, precipitating his release from the UFC.
Now, the 33-fight veteran is looking for a new home with his manager telling MMA Fighting that he plans to speak with multiple promotions to decide the best possible landing spot for his client.
