Last week’s UFC Saudi Arabia event delivered mixed results—some fighters walked away with victories, while others faced tough defeats. However, for two heavyweight contenders, Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Jamal Pogues, the night turned into a disaster. Following their losses, UFC CEO Dana White and his team decided to cut ties with both fighters. Pogues competed on the preliminary card, but White’s real focus was on Rozenstruik, who fought on the main card.

During the post-fight press conference, the head honcho didn’t hold back, criticizing both Jairzinho Rozenstruik and his opponent, Sergei Pavlovich, for their lackluster performance. However, it was ‘Bigi Boy’ who took most of the heat for what was widely considered a ‘Horrible’ fight. Rozenstruik stayed silent in the aftermath—until now.

He recently broke his silence, revealing what went wrong during his UFC Saudi Arabia bout. Taking to X, he wrote, “I came to Riyadh to win and pull off the upset. After a strong fight week, I felt dizzy on Saturday due to the paint fumes. Then, just 70 seconds into the fight, I injured my left foot. The moment my switch kick landed on his elbow, I felt it instantly and knew the fight would play out differently than planned.”

Rozenstruik continued, “At the end of 2018, I signed my first contract with the @UFC, embarking on an incredible journey. Competing on the biggest stage has been an honor, and I want to express my deepest gratitude to the UFC staff for their professionalism and support over the years. Thank you.” Reflecting on his career, the heavyweight vet added, “From being Rookie of the Year to becoming an MMA veteran, this journey has been unforgettable. While this chapter with the UFC is closing, my story is far from over. I will continue to fight, take on new challenges, and settle unfinished business in the cage. I’m ready for whatever comes next! 💪🇸🇷❤️”

‘Bigi Boy’ made an explosive entrance into the UFC in 2019, securing four consecutive knockout victories and rapidly gaining recognition as a rising contender in the heavyweight division. However, as his career progressed, the momentum shifted, and losses began to overshadow his early success. Now standing with a 9-6 record in the promotion, his tenure remains respectable but lacks the impact needed to shake up the division—a reality recently highlighted by a UFC lightweight contender.

Renato Moicano uncovers Dana White’s intentions after cutting Jairzinho Rozenstruik

“Cutting Jairzinho Rozenstruik? That’s crazy! Two losses in his last five fights! Looks like the UFC is trying to send a message to the heavyweight division,” wrote UFC lightweight contender Renato Moicano on X. For years, the UFC’s heavyweight division was stacked with legendary names like Randy Couture, Frank Mir, and Cain Velasquez. But in recent times, the division has struggled to stay exciting, with only a few big names—like Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall—keeping it relevant.

While talent still exists, the lack of competitive depth has slowed the division’s momentum. Making matters worse, UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones has been a constant source of frustration for Dana White and the promotion due to his inconsistent presence in the Octagon.

Yet, despite his inactivity, White’s treatment of Jones remains unchanged, sparking criticism of favoritism. Does cutting Jairzinho Rozenstruik send a strong enough message to other heavyweights? And should White start holding fighters like Jon Jones more accountable? Share your thoughts below.