5 UFC fighters you didn't realize were released in 2021

#2. Demian Maia - UFC welterweight

A true legend of the UFC, Demian Maia's illustrious career with the promotion came to an end following the resolution of UFC 263. Maia's bout with Belal Muhammad marked the last fight on his contract. Whilst the Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialist hinted that he was interested in re-signing for a fight with a fellow veteran like Nate Diaz, Dana White poured cold water on the idea.

UFC 214 Cormier vs. Jones: Weigh-ins

Ultimately it is probably the right choice for Maia to depart the UFC at this time. He is currently 44 years old and on a two-fight losing streak, having come up short against the aforementioned Belal Muhammad and Gilbert Burns.

Maia leaves the UFC with an impressive pro MMA record of 28-11, having gone 22-11 for the promotion. Maia competed in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions, only losing out to the very best.

UFC 211: Miocic v Dos Santos 2

Over the course of his 20 year career in the sport of MMA, Maia defeated some all-time greats including Chael Sonnen, Jorge Masvidal and Carlos Condit. It does not seem likely that fans will see Maia compete in MMA again.

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#1. Jimmie Rivera - UFC bantamweight

At one point in time, Jimmie Rivera looked near unbeatable. In 2017, 'El Terror' held a record of 21-1, having torn through a number of high-level UFC opponents, including Urijah Faber, Pedro Munhoz and Thomas Almeida.

UFC 203: Stipe Miocic v Alistair Overeem

However, in 2018, Marlon Moraes handed Rivera his first loss in the UFC. 'El Terror' did bounce back well, defeating John Dodson later that year but was ultimately unable to regain his form.

Rivera's next two fights ended in losses, as both Aljamain Sterling and Petr Yan were able to pick up decision victories over him. As it happens, Sterling and Yan are now the 135lb champion and interim champion respectively.

Rivera's last two fights for the promotion ended in a win over Cody Staman and a highly entertaining loss to Pedro Munhoz. It does seem somewhat bizarre that the UFC would not extend Rivera's contract, considering he is a fan favorite action fighter who has only lost to the very best the UFC has to offer.

However, 'El Terror' has since announced he will be entering the world of bare knuckle boxing, so it may well be that his departure from the UFC was a mutual decision.