
UFC Announces Significant Roster Changes with Recent Fighter Cuts in 2024
Over the weekend, on Saturday, December 21, 2024, UFC Roster Watch disclosed that the promotion has made two key decisions to release fighters from their contracts. Welterweight Jared Gooden and Middleweight Abu Azaitar have both been let go, indicating a shift in the organization’s focus and roster strategy as it prepares for future events and talent acquisitions.
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Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Jared Gooden, with a professional record of 23 wins and 10 losses, has now received his release from the UFC for the second time in his career. His initial tenure with the promotion spanned from 2020 to 2021, where he faced tough competition and ended with a record of 1-3. Notable losses during that period include bouts against Alan Jouban, Abubakar Nurmagomedov, and Randy Brown.
After his first UFC stint, “Nite Train” returned to the regional circuit, where he achieved four impressive victories, ultimately earning another shot in the UFC. However, this return was marred by challenges, including missing weight on two occasions—once against Brown during his initial fight. Unfortunately, his comeback did not go as planned.
In his most recent fight, the 31-year-old Gooden faced Carlston Harris, suffering a defeat. However, he did manage to secure a Performance of the Night bonus against Wellington Turman, where he showcased his skills by submitting his opponent (watch highlights). His latest performance ended in a disappointing unanimous decision loss to Chidi Njokuani, which ultimately sealed his fate within the organization.
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Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
Abu Azaitar, aged 38, faced significant challenges due to his prolonged inactivity, which likely contributed to his release from the UFC. Known as “Captain Morocco,” he made his promotional debut in 2018 but only managed to compete in two more fights over the following years. His most notable bout occurred at UFC 260 in 2021, where he was stopped by Marc-Andre Barriault (watch highlights). In his last fight, Azaitar faced Sedriques Dumas at UFC 294, delivering a lackluster performance that ended in a unanimous decision loss, further sealing his fate within the organization.
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