After a remarkable twelve-year run that included a World Lightweight Championship, Anthony Pettis is leaving the UFC. Pettis, 33 finishes his epic stint in the Octagon with an 11-9 record while holding an MMA record of 24-10.
Thank you @ufc @danawhite 🙏👊🤝 pic.twitter.com/pJtBo2Hpxc
— Anthony Pettis (@Showtimepettis) December 23, 2020
Pettis defeated Alex Morono by unanimous decision at UFC Fight Night on Saturday, December 19 in Las Vegas at the APEX Center. “Showtime”, being the flamboyant and exciting warrior that all know him for has become a free agent and will test the market. With some good years left in his career, many are anticipating that Bellator may be the first promotion to approach him to negotiate a possible deal. His brother, Sergio is currently under contract with the Viacom-owned brand.
According to ESPN.com per Marc Raimondi, Pettis released a classy statement to the company that helped make him what he is today.
“From being on MTV to the cover of the Wheaties box, I am forever grateful for everything I have experienced and accomplished with this company!!!”
Pettis burst onto the UFC scene after Zuffa bought the rights to World Extreme Cagefighting or the WEC back in 2010. He was the final Lightweight Champion for that promotion before the purchase was made. Pettis holds two wins over Donald Cerrone, Stephen Thompson, Joe Lauzon, Gilbert Melendez, Jim Miller, and dethroned Benson Henderson to become the UFC Lightweight Champion at UFC 164 on August 31, 2013.
Pettis has also fought in the welterweight in 2019 and featherweight division in 2016 while fighting in the UFC.
