Bryan Barberena, a 30-fight veteran, has announced that he has not been re-signed after his contract with the UFC ended, and is considering other opportunities, including possibly facing Mike Perry in bare-knuckle boxing.
Bryan Barberena’s taking a break from the octagon. A seasoned veteran with 30 fights under his belt, he’s announced his departure from UFC. He’s fought out his contract and hasn’t been re-signed. Here’s what he had to say on social media.
“Wow, what a journey it’s been! My UFC contract’s up, and they haven’t re-signed me. For now, I’ll be chilling with my family, doing some farming, and sipping on Ridge Rum. There’s a world of opportunities out there to let my fists do the talking and ruffle some feathers. So, let’s see where Bam Bam Nation pops up next.”
A heartfelt thanks to Bam Bam Nation, all the fans, and everyone who got a kick out of my fights. And to UFC, it’s been a wild ride.”
Barberena’s planning to take a breather, enjoy life a bit. He’s thankful for the chances he got as a UFC fighter. And he’s not done yet. He’s eyeing a bare-knuckle boxing match with Mike Perry, fresh off Perry’s 60-second knockout of Thiago Alves at BKFC KnuckleMania 4.
“Looks like Perry could use a real brawler to spar with. #bkfc” – BRYAN BARBERENA, April 28, 2024.
Barberena, now 34, first stepped into the UFC ring in December 2014. He TKO’d Joe Ellenberger in the third round of his debut match. He’s had some notable wins against Robbie Lawler, Matt Brown, Sage Northcutt, Warlley Alves, and Jake Ellenberger. The welterweight veteran moved up to 185 pounds for his last two fights, both losses, unfortunately.
In his 19 UFC appearances, Barberena’s record stands at 9-10. He’s bagged five Fight of the Night bonuses. His overall pro record? A solid 18-12.