UFC Releases Veteran Bantamweight Cody Stamann Among Nine Fighter Cuts

In a surprising move, the UFC has parted ways with longtime bantamweight contender Cody Stamann, along with eight other fighters. This decision, announced on Thursday, marks the end of Stamann’s seven-year tenure with the promotion, during which he amassed a record of 8-6-1 across 15 fights.

UFC parts ways with 15-fight veteran Cody Stamann, 5 others https://t.co/ymXOXzGxPc

— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) February 27, 2025

Stamann, known for his gritty wrestling style and tenacious performances, had been a mainstay in the competitive 135-pound division since his UFC debut in 2017. Despite facing some of the division’s top talents, including Aljamain Sterling, Merab Dvalishvili, and Song Yadong, Stamann’s recent performances seemingly fell short of the promotion’s expectations.

The 35-year-old Michigan native’s last appearance in the Octagon resulted in a unanimous decision loss to Said Nurmagomedov at UFC Fight Night 217 in January 2024. This defeat, coupled with a 2-3 record in his last five outings, likely contributed to the UFC’s decision to release him from his contract.

Impact on the Bantamweight Division and Stamann’s Future

Stamann’s departure leaves a void in the bantamweight rankings, where he had long been considered a tough test for rising prospects and a gatekeeper to the division’s elite. His release also serves as a stark reminder of the UFC’s commitment to roster turnover and the constant pressure on fighters to perform at the highest level.

Among the other five fighters released alongside Stamann were:

That brings the number to 69 (60%), as Roosevelt Roberts and Natan Levy have just been released too (according to https://t.co/IoVkhZoTMS).

Looking at it another way, among 115 fighters signed in four years through DWCS, only 40% of them are still under contract with the UFC. https://t.co/wiHmI3t8Aw pic.twitter.com/Z3aDp9gC1E

— Al Zullino (@phre) February 28, 2025

While these cuts may not carry the same weight as Stamann’s release, they underscore the competitive nature of the UFC and the limited shelf life of fighters who struggle to string together victories.

For Stamann, this release doesn’t necessarily spell the end of his MMA career. At 35, he still has the potential to compete at a high level in other promotions. Organizations like Bellator, PFL, or ONE Championship could provide new opportunities for the veteran to showcase his skills and potentially work his way back to the UFC.

The UFC’s decision to part ways with Stamann and the others also opens up roster spots for new talent. This constant influx of fresh faces helps maintain the promotion’s competitive edge and keeps divisions dynamic.

As the UFC moves forward with its roster adjustments, the MMA community will be watching closely to see which up-and-coming fighters fill the gaps left by these departures and how veterans like Stamann navigate the next chapter of their careers.