Will Brooks Announces UFC Release, Heading To PFL

Former Bellator MMA Lightweight Champion Will Brooks is no longer a part of the UFC, as the fighter has been cut from the promotion after a dismal 1-3-0 run.

Brooks is now apparently heading to the Professional Fighters League, a move Brooks announced alongside his UFC release via Instagram:

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For those of you who have been asking when my next fight is... well, I'm not sure when the next will be but it will not be with the UFC but rather with the @profightleague in the Million Dollar tournament. I've been doing this for a while now and I understand the business side of it. I didn't do the job that was expected of me and like all jobs I was released, rightfully so. Unfortunately, I under performed with the UFC and didn't achieve the goal I wanted to with that opportunity. 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. Now with that being said, I am moving forward toward the next chapter. I'm extremely excited and fired up to be part of the @profighteague and their rebirth. 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. All praise and glory to God. 1 I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. - Psalms 121:1-2 At my highest and my lowest, He's been with me and seen me through to lands of milk and honey. Thank you God for blessing me with this incredible opportunity for my family and myself. Now let's go secure this bag!!!! #Godisgood #hardwork #dedication #mma #ufc #PFL #professional #athlete #Godsplan #winningatlife

A post shared by Will Brooks (@illwavybrooks86) on Feb 14, 2018 at 5:33pm PST

During that poor run in the UFC, a now released brooks defeated Ross Pearson, while suffering defeats to Alex Oliveira, Charles Oliveira and Nik Lentz. Brooks last bout with the promotion came at UFC Fight Night Sydney, where he was submitted in the second round by Lentz.

Bellator MMA was where Brooks found his greatest success, defeating Michael Chandler to win the lightweight title at Bellator 120.

If Brooks is indeed entering the PFL Lightweight Tournament, it would mean he is the first fighter official for that weight classes bracket.