Long-time UFC fighter Melvin Guillard has been released from the UFC following his latest defeat in the Octagon.
Guillard put in a lackluster display during a unanimous decision loss to Michael Johnson at UFC Fight Night 37 earlier this month, leaving him with only one victory in his last five fights for the promotion, and apparently that was the final straw for the UFC.
The 30 year-old has been plying his trade in the UFC for almost nine years after initially getting his big break as a cast member on season two of ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ reality show.
He’s had his ups and downs over the years, but his explosive striking style meant he was always a fun fighter to watch and one of the heaviest handed lightweight fighters around with eight knockout victories registered in 13 Octagon appearances.
Guillard wasn’t without his flaws though, with no less than six of his nine UFC losses coming by way of submission. He also tested positive for cocaine in 2007, and in later years in particular things like inconsistent form, puzzling game plans, weight issues and fight camp problems have led to doubts as to whether his mental game will ever match up to his physical gifts.
And so, with an overall 13-9 (+1nc) record in the UFC, it’s time for Guillard to move on to pastures new, and given that when he’s on form he’s highly entertaining it’s unlikely he’ll be short of offers for his services.
Bellator would seem like a good fit for him and they are showing more of a willingness to bring in former UFC fighters now than they did in the past, though World Series Of Fighting have also been aggressive in trying to sign well known fighters from the promotion, so they are certain to be a frontrunner for his signature as well.
