It’s a harsh reality that even the most talented and popular fighters can sometimes sabotage their own UFC careers with a single mistake. Here are five fighters who inadvertently torpedoed their own paths in the promotion:
#5 Miguel Torres:
The former WEC bantamweight champion was highly anticipated when he entered the UFC in 2011. However, after a controversial Twitter post, he was abruptly released from his contract. Despite being brought back later, another ill-advised tweet led to his second release. Torres’ potential for a successful UFC career was hindered by his social media blunders.
#4 Todd Duffee:
Known for his lightning-fast knockout of Tim Hague, Duffee seemed destined for stardom. However, he was cut from his UFC contract due to reported attitude problems and dissatisfaction with his pay. Despite returning later, injuries prevented him from reaching his full potential.
#3 Josh Barnett:
After winning the UFC heavyweight title, Barnett tested positive for banned substances, leading to his suspension and eventual release from the promotion. Had he not been involved in the PED scandal, Barnett could have had a more illustrious UFC career.
#2 Paul Daley:
Daley’s career took a nosedive after he sucker-punched Josh Koscheck after their fight ended. This action led to his immediate release and lifetime ban from the UFC, preventing him from capitalizing on his momentum in the welterweight division.
#1 Nate Marquardt:
Marquardt’s move to welterweight was anticipated to reignite his career, but he was pulled from his debut fight after failing medicals due to testosterone replacement therapy. This scandal led to his release and tarnished his reputation, preventing him from pursuing title contention in a new weight class.
Each of these fighters had the potential for a successful UFC career, but their actions outside the octagon or failed drug tests ultimately derailed their paths in the promotion.
