UFC longest-tenured fighter confirms exit: Clay Guida issues statement

After practically twenty years, “The Carpenter” has break up from the UFC.

Clay Guida’s title was lately faraway from the promotion’s on-line roster (per @UFCRosterTracker) and Saturday he confirmed the parting of the way to be true in a prolonged, heartfelt Instagram submit.

Guida (38-25 MMA, 18-19 UFC) was the longest-tenured fighter on the promotion’s lively roster. It’s unclear if he was launched or didn’t renew on the conclusion of a contract.

“There may be nothing I get pleasure from greater than moving into the octagon and preventing for our followers,” Guida wrote. “I’m actually grateful to Dana White and his excellent employees for giving a child with common expertise however above-average work ethic the chance to satisfy his goals as a wrestler and blended martial artist.”

Guida, 43, stated he’s competed in sports activities for 38 years – together with 19 years within the UFC. He thanked everybody from mates to household to coaching companions and coaches for serving to him alongside a journey that’s been uncommon in longevity.

From his promotional debut, a win over Justin James on Oct. 14, 2006 at UFC 64, by way of his submission loss to Chase Hooper in December at UFC 310, Guida competed a complete of 37 occasions underneath the UFC banner. He confronted a who’s who of top-tier light-weight and featherweight expertise together with Nate Diaz, Benson Henderson, Kenny Florian, Brian Ortega, and Chad Mendes.

His “The Final Fighter Finale 9” bout vs. Diego Sanchez landed within the UFC Corridor of Fame combat wing, inducted in 2019.

Guida will seemingly be remembered not just for his longevity, however for his seemingly infinite cardio tank, signature hair, and unorthodox pre-fight ritual with brother Jason Guida.

However the story won’t be over but. Guida indicated whereas he’s parted methods with the promotion, the transfer doesn’t imply he’s retired.

“This isn’t my retirement,” Guida wrote. “That is merely a thank-you for now and a passing of my UFC torch to the following technology of warriors and wrestlers. We have been constructed to final. I’ve stated it earlier than, and I’ll say it once more: The very best is but to come back! Straight to the highest, as a result of wrestling is life! Now let’s go fishing!”