Staying in the UFC is one of the toughest tasks in all of combat sports. While breaking in takes grit, staying in takes evolution, luck, and results. Eventually, the game moves faster, younger talent pushes forward, and even the most seasoned fighters reach the end of the road. That’s where many long-tenured names find themselves—no longer at the top of cards, but still giving everything to stay competitive in a relentless environment. Recently, we learned that one of those veterans is no longer with the organization.

According to Borrachinha Depot, longtime UFC veteran Brad Tavares has been removed from the active roster. The 37-year-old American middleweight spent 15 years with the organization after debuting in June 2010. Tavares earned his contract following a stint on The Ultimate Fighter: Team Liddell vs. Team Ortiz (Season 11) and wasted no time proving himself, winning 7 of his first 8 UFC fights. He compiled a 16-10 record across 26 official UFC bouts, most recently earning a unanimous decision win over Gerald Meerschaert at UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Murphy. Known for his durability and technique, Tavares went the distance in 19 of his 32 professional MMA bouts. His most notable matchups include a five-round war with future champion Israel Adesanya in 2018, a knockout win over Krzysztof Jotko, and a recent dominant decision win over former titleholder Chris Weidman in 2023. He also tied Michael Bisping for the most wins (16) in UFC middleweight history.

Roster changes like this reflect a broader pattern Dana White has long acknowledged—UFC’s roster turnover is constant. Fighters come and go, often quietly, as the next generation climbs in. 

For veterans, it’s rarely about failure. It’s about timing. And when your run spans 15 years in a single division, the record speaks for itself. While nothing has been officially announced, it’s possible Tavares could transition into coaching, commentary, or even explore new opportunities in promotions like PFL, Bellator, or BKFC—should he decide to continue competing.

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