UFC Releases Knockout Specialist Ahead of May 17 Event
As UFC Fight Night approaches on May 17, 2025, at UFC Apex in Las Vegas, the event has seen its fair share of lineup changes. While the main event remains a heavyweight showdown between Curtis Blaydes and Rizvan Kuniev, one fighter originally set to compete will no longer be on the card. In a recent development, a competitor has been removed from the UFC roster, effectively canceling a scheduled bout. This exit from the organization marks a significant shift in their career after years of competing in the welterweight and middleweight divisions.
First reported by Borrachinha Depot, Abdul Razak Alhassan has been removed from the UFC's active roster. For Alhassan, this comes after a challenging stretch in the promotion. He has won just one of his last five fights, with one no-contest included in that span. His most recent outing resulted in a knockout loss to Cesar Almeida in January 2025, further dampening his prospects in the promotion.
Abdul Razak Alhassan © Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Alhassan originally joined the UFC in 2016 and made an immediate impact, securing four knockouts in his first five fights. Known for his devastating power, he quickly became a feared striker in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions.
Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesCredit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
However, inconsistency and recent struggles have led to his departure from the organization. UFC President Dana White has yet to comment on the recent removal, but the decision underscores the promotion's competitive nature and willingness to make tough roster changes. With Alhassan now off the roster, the May 17 event will move forward without his anticipated matchup.
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