January 26, 2025 8:50 am ET
After practically twenty years, “The Carpenter” has break up from the UFC.
Clay Guida’s identify was just lately faraway from the promotion’s on-line roster (per @UFCRosterTracker) and Saturday he confirmed the parting of the way to be true in a prolonged, heartfelt Instagram publish.
Guida (38-25 MMA, 18-19 UFC) was the longest-tenured fighter on the promotion’s energetic roster. It’s unclear if he was launched or didn’t renew on the conclusion of a contract.
“There’s nothing I get pleasure from greater than moving into the octagon and combating for our followers,” Guida wrote. “I’m actually grateful to Dana White and his excellent workers for giving a child with common abilities however above-average work ethic the chance to meet his goals as a wrestler and combined martial artist.”
Guida, 43, stated he’s competed in sports activities for 38 years – together with 19 years within the UFC. He thanked everybody from associates to household to coaching companions and coaches for serving to him alongside a journey that’s been uncommon in longevity. From his promotional debut, a win over Justin James on Oct. 14, 2006 at UFC 64, via his submission loss to Chase Hooper in December at UFC 310, Guida competed a complete of 37 occasions underneath the UFC banner. He confronted a who’s who of top-tier light-weight and featherweight expertise together with Nate Diaz, Benson Henderson, Kenny Florian, Brian Ortega, and Chad Mendes.
His “The Final Fighter Finale 9” bout vs. Diego Sanchez landed in the UFC Hall of Fame fight wing, inducted in 2019.
Guida will probably be remembered not just for his longevity, however for his seemingly limitless cardio tank, signature hair, and unorthodox pre-fight ritual with brother Jason Guida.
However the story won’t be over but. Guida indicated whereas he’s parted methods with the promotion, the transfer doesn’t imply he’s retired.
“This isn’t my retirement,” Guida wrote. “That is merely a thank-you for now and a passing of my UFC torch to the following era of warriors and wrestlers. We have been constructed to final. I’ve stated it earlier than, and I’ll say it once more: The very best is but to return! Straight to the highest, as a result of wrestling is life! Now let’s go fishing!”
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