Will Brooks Cut By UFC, Signs With PFL
Will Brooks thought he would have his big break when the former Bellator lightweight champion jumped to the UFC, but on Wednesday Brooks would be cut by the company.
Per MMA Fighting, Brooks announced via instagram that he was cut by the UFC, but has signed up with the Professional Fighters League, and has entered their $1 million tournament, more than likely as a lightweight competitor
Brooks wrote that, “the timing is perfect because I’m in my own rebirth process as well. As always I’m going to represent this organization as professionally as I possibly can. I look forward to being a pivotal part of the PFL’s growth in this sport.”
Brooks was riding a winning streak heading into his UFC debut in 2016, against Ross Pearson. But following his victory against Pearson, Brooks would fall in three straight fights, culminating in a second round submission to Nik Lentz at UFC Sydney.
“Unfortunately, I under performed with the UFC and didn’t achieve the goal I wanted to with that opportunity,” Brooks wrote. “I regret nothing, I took a chance at something I wanted and came up short. The fighter/competitor in me is highly disappointed with myself for allowing things to get away from me. The UFC chapter is closed for now… I’d like to thank the UFC staff for treating me so well during my employment. From day one I was treated well and with respect. I appreciate that greatly.”
Brooks held the Bellator lightweight title from 2014 to his final fight in the promotion in 2015, soon after asking for his release in May 2016, citing unhappiness with how he was treated.
Brooks’ signing comes off the heels of PFL signing a deal with NBC Sports Group and Facebook set to begin on June 7th and ending on December 31st.
Original Story: MMA Fighting