Cat Zingano on her UFC release: ‘I guess you can say it was mutual’

Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

The former UFC title challenger addresses her departure from the promotion.

In rather unexpected news, top-ten ranked bantamweight Cat Zingano was removed from the UFC roster, several months after her odd TKO loss to Megan Anderson at UFC 232. The former title challenger was admittedly just 1-4 over her last five fights, but had an active 2018 with three appearances inside the Octagon, including a win over Marion Reneau.

So what prompted her release from the promotion after six years? Zingano told ESPN’s Ariel Helwani that an undisclosed “project” played a part in her departure.

“I didn’t want to take the ultimatum this time,” Zingano said. “So I guess you can say it was mutual. I had a project that was very, very important to me, and to the MMA community and fans, and I needed to put me, my son, my training and that first before I had anything to give to the UFC.

“It’s s---ty timing, but it happens, and I’m still a fighter and ready to f--- s--- up,” she concluded.

Zingano (10-4) is the last woman to beat Amanda Nunes, stopping her by third-round TKO at UFC 178 in 2014. That earned her a title shot against Ronda Rousey, which ended in a quick armbar loss. Her other notable wins including a knockout of Miesha Tate and a submission over fellow ex-title challenger Raquel Pennington while under the Invicta FC banner.

The 37-year-old also indicated that she intends to continue her career, although now it’ll be for a different MMA organization.