Jon Jones' Teammate Axed From UFC Roster After UFC Des Moines Defeat

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Post on May 04, 2025

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Jon Jones' Teammate Axed from UFC Roster After UFC Des Moines Defeat

UFC light heavyweight contender, and teammate of reigning champion Jon Jones, Thiago Santos, has been released from the UFC following his disappointing unanimous decision loss to Jamahal Hill at UFC Des Moines. The news sent shockwaves through the MMA community, sparking debate about the UFC's roster cuts and the pressure faced by fighters at the highest level.

The fight, headlining UFC Fight Night 220 on February 18th, saw Santos, a former title challenger, unable to overcome the younger, faster Hill. While Santos showed moments of his explosive power, Hill's superior striking and movement proved decisive, leading to a clear victory for the rising star. The loss marked Santos' third consecutive defeat, a streak that ultimately sealed his fate with the promotion.

<h3>A Controversial Cut?</h3>

Santos' release has ignited a firestorm of discussion among MMA fans and analysts. Many argue that his contributions to the sport, including his two previous title fights, warrant more consideration. His ferocious fighting style and exciting bouts have captivated audiences for years. Others, however, point to his recent losing streak and the UFC's increasingly competitive roster as justification for the cut.

• Santos' Impact: Before his recent decline, Santos was a force to be reckoned with, showcasing incredible power and resilience. His fights against Jon Jones and Glover Teixeira were brutal, high-stakes encounters that cemented his place as a top contender.
• The UFC's Roster Management: The UFC's decision highlights the cutthroat nature of the sport and the pressure on fighters to consistently perform at the highest level. With a deep pool of talent, the promotion is constantly evaluating and adjusting its roster.
• Jones' Influence (or Lack Thereof): While Santos was a teammate and training partner of Jon Jones, speculation about Jones' influence on the decision has been largely dismissed. The UFC has consistently emphasized performance-based decisions in its roster cuts.

<h3>What's Next for Santos?</h3>

The future remains uncertain for Thiago Santos. Given his experience, skill, and name recognition, he's likely to attract interest from other MMA promotions. Opportunities in Bellator, ONE Championship, or even a potential return to the UFC down the line remain possibilities. For now, however, the focus is on his recovery and his next move in his career.

<h3>The Implications for Jon Jones' Team</h3>

While Jones himself remains the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, the departure of Santos raises questions about the stability of his team and the pressure on other fighters associated with him. This unexpected cut serves as a stark reminder of the transient nature of success in the cutthroat world of mixed martial arts.

The UFC’s decision to release Thiago Santos sends a clear message: even established fighters need to consistently deliver winning performances to maintain their place in the organization. This event will undoubtedly have lasting implications for the landscape of the light heavyweight division and beyond, prompting further discussions about the future of fighters and the UFC's roster management strategy. The MMA community will be watching closely to see where Santos lands next and how this significant roster change shapes the future of the UFC.