UFC Releases Bryan Battle After Second Weight Miss, Cancelled UFC 319 Bout

Bryan Battle, winner of The Ultimate Fighter 2021, has been released from the UFC following his second consecutive weight miss and a cancelled bout at UFC 319. Battle was scheduled to face Nursulton Ruziboev in a middleweight contest but failed to make weight, tipping the scales at 190 pounds four pounds over the non-title limit.

The fight was scrapped, and just days later, UFC officials confirmed Battle’s release from the organization. Despite riding a three-fight win streak, the repeated weight issues ultimately cost him his spot on the roster.

Weight Struggles Plague Rising Career

Battle had previously missed weight in December 2024 ahead of his welterweight fight against Randy Brown a bout he won. After a lengthy layoff, he accepted a middleweight matchup with Ruziboev, hoping to get back on track. Despite moving up in weight, Battle still failed to meet the limit.

Speaking to MMA Fighting before UFC 319, Battle admitted the weight struggles were impacting his career. “I told my agent, I’m not afraid of these middleweights I would love to go back down to welterweight at some point,” he said.

Another Missed Opportunity at Middleweight

Battle’s failure to make weight at middleweight was particularly concerning. He stepped in at 190 pounds, well over the 186-pound non-title limit. The bout was cancelled, marking his third weight miss in the UFC, a red flag the promotion could no longer ignore. His talent was never questioned, but his inability to hit contracted weight made him a liability.

Promising Record Cut Short by Consistency Issues

Battle exits the UFC with a solid 7-1 record and one no-contest. While his in-cage performance showed potential, his repeated weight issues led to an early exit. He now faces the challenge of rebuilding his career and reputation possibly in another promotion.

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