Long-time UFC heavyweight fighter Cheick Kongo has been released from his contract after his latest defeat in the Octagon.
Kongo was knocked out by Roy Nelson at UFC 159, marking his second defeat in three fights, with both losses coming via strikes in the first round and that was enough to pave the way for his exit from the promotion.
In total Kongo has had 18 fights in the UFC, producing a record of 11-6-1 during a seven year run, and that long stint may leave some wondering why he wasn’t given more of an opportunity to get back to winning ways.
However, Kongo’s performances over the past couple of years have taken a noticeable drop even when he’s been on the winning side of the equation – including having to come back from death’s door to KO Pat Barry, and more significantly, grinding out painfully lethargic decision wins over the likes of Matt Mitrione and Shawn Jordan.
Still, at the age of 37 it’s still possible that there’s time for him to revive his career and with decent heavyweights being in short supply outside of the UFC a well known veteran like Kongo is sure to attract the attention of the other significant promotions including Bellator, World Series Of Fighting and possibly even the likes of ONE FC.
